Line of Courtiers on Horseback Facing Left, Behind Them A Line Facing Right c. 17th century

Editor: This is Pieter Nolpe's "Line of Courtiers on Horseback Facing Left, Behind Them A Line Facing Right." I'm struck by the etching's detail, especially considering the likely printing process involved. What can you tell me about the materials and creation of this work? Curator: Consider the copper plate Nolpe would have used. How does the labor-intensive process of etching affect the value we place on the print versus, say, a painting? The material itself, copper, a valued metal, informs the economics of art production. Editor: That's a good point. It's interesting to think about the material cost and time investment influencing its perceived value. Thanks! Curator: Indeed. Examining the materiality and means of production gives us a richer understanding.