Buste van een meisje, in profiel 1831 - 1904

Arnoud Schaepkens created this etching of a girl's profile. Notice how the intricate lines define her curly hair and delicate features. The etching process involves covering a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant layer. The artist then scratches an image into this layer, exposing the metal beneath. When the plate is dipped in acid, the exposed lines are etched into the metal. The longer it's submerged, the deeper and darker the lines become, giving the print its distinctive texture. Schaepkens likely used fine tools to create this image, allowing for precise control over the lines and details. This skilled labor is integral to the beauty of the print. The etching would have allowed him to create multiple copies, making art more accessible. This reflects the changing dynamics of art production and consumption in the 19th century. By appreciating the material and labor involved, we can better understand the social context of this artwork, recognizing that it is as much a product of skilled work as it is artistic vision.