A woman making water after 1631

This etching, titled "A woman making water", was made by an anonymous artist, using an etching technique. The term ‘etching’ refers to the process of using strong acid to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio in the metal. In this case, the artist has used metal – probably iron or steel. The image shows a woman relieving herself, and by all accounts she seems to be doing so outdoors, surrounded by natural features. The artist has used the etching technique to create fine lines and intricate details, and has played with the composition to draw attention to the woman. The etching technique is often associated with printmaking, which played a role in disseminating knowledge and ideas during the Renaissance and Baroque periods. This etching serves as a reminder of the ways in which art and craft can come together to create meaningful and thought-provoking images, blurring the boundaries between these different creative disciplines.