Landscape, from Deuxieme Cahier de Paysage 1772

Nicolas Pérignon created this landscape print sometime in the 1700s, using etching. This intaglio printmaking technique involves using acid to cut lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The matrix of metal plate is critical, as the hardness of the metal allows for a high level of detail in the image. The linear quality of the etching beautifully captures the rustic textures and forms of this rural scene. You can see the rough thatching of the roofs, the worn surfaces of the buildings. Consider the labor involved in creating this image. From the initial sketches to the careful work of etching and printing, each step required skill and time. This print not only represents a landscape, but also embodies the values of craft and tradition. By focusing on the material and the making, we gain a deeper appreciation for Pérignon's artistry.