Femme hollendoise estant au logis 1662

This is an engraving, made by an anonymous artist. The process involves cutting lines into a metal plate, inking the surface, and then wiping it clean so that only the ink in the recesses is transferred to paper under pressure. Note how the artist uses this technique to describe the woman's clothing, suggesting the textures of different fabrics and the intricate patterns of lace. The level of detail achieved speaks to the engraver's skill, and also to the value placed on fine craftsmanship in this period. The work is not just an image of a Dutch woman, but also a testament to the labor and expertise required to create such a detailed print. Considering the time and effort involved, this engraving challenges any easy distinction between "high art" and "craft."