Poesia (Poëzie) c. 1600 - 1685

Jean Baptiste Humbelot created this print, titled 'Poesia,' in the 17th century, using engraving techniques to translate an allegorical composition into a series of precise lines and textures. The process of engraving—the careful carving into a metal plate, inking, and then pressing onto paper—allowed for the mass production of images, creating the means for ideas to circulate widely in early modern Europe. Note how the material qualities of the print—the stark contrast between the ink and paper, the intricate detail achieved through labor-intensive mark-making—imbue the artwork with a distinct visual language. This printmaking tradition, though born from a commercial imperative, also provided artists with a means to engage in a discourse about the social and cultural values of their time, and the poem under the image praises poetry as inspiration for warriors. Understanding the historical context of its production allows us to appreciate how 'Poesia' transcends mere decoration, offering insights into the intersection of art, labor, and commerce.