Portret van Galileo Galilei 1760s

This portrait of Galileo Galilei was made by Jean-Charles François in the 18th century using etching. This intaglio printmaking technique involves using acid to cut lines into a metal plate, which then holds ink to transfer the image to paper. Note the fineness of line in the image, achieved through careful control of the etching process, and the amount of labor involved. The artisan would have to apply a resist to the plate, scribe the image, and then carefully immerse the plate in acid. The social and cultural significance here lies in the way that printmaking enabled the reproduction and dissemination of images, democratizing access to knowledge and representation. François has not just made a portrait of a notable individual. He has also participated in the circulation of images and ideas that transformed European society. Recognizing the labor and methods involved in its production allows us to see this print not only as fine art, but as an agent of social and intellectual change.