Herder met twee koeien bij water 1613 - 1695

This etching, *Herder met twee koeien bij water,* was created by Nicolas Perelle in the 17th century. Etching is an intaglio printmaking technique that involves using acid to cut into a metal plate, traditionally copper or zinc. The plate is covered with a waxy, acid-resistant ground, and the artist scratches an image into the ground with a pointed tool, exposing the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed metal, creating incised lines. The remaining ground is removed, and the plate is inked. After the surface ink is wiped clean, the ink remains in the incised lines. Finally, the plate is pressed onto a sheet of paper, transferring the ink and creating a print. The quality of the lines in the etching are a direct result of the acid biting into the metal, an indirect process that can result in unique textures and effects. The relatively low cost of the process, compared to engraving, meant that prints like these were widely available, thus democratizing access to imagery.