Jager met twee honden 1610 - 1614

This print, "Hunter with Two Dogs," was made by Esaias van de Velde, most likely in the 17th century, using the etching technique. The controlled corrosion of metal with acid allowed the artist to create incredibly fine details and textures. Look closely, and you will notice the quality of line used to depict the hunter's clothing, dogs, foliage, and the landscape. These are all carefully considered. The etching process is crucial to understanding this image, as the quality of the lines and the tonal gradations give it depth and realism. The print also gives us insight into the culture of the time, as hunting was an activity associated with status and wealth. Through the printmaking process, however, such imagery could be disseminated widely, and consumed by a much broader audience. So next time you look at a print, remember the skilled labor and technical processes involved in its making. It is a prime example of how art and craft intersect, reflecting the social and cultural values of its time.