Gezicht op een kanaal bij Loosdrecht 1880

Carel Nicolaas Storm van 's-Gravesande made this print, *Gezicht op een kanaal bij Loosdrecht*, using etching, a printmaking technique that embraces both craft and industry. The artist would have coated a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant substance. Using a sharp needle, the artist scratched away the coating, exposing the metal beneath. The plate was then submerged in acid, which bit into the exposed lines, creating grooves. Ink was applied to the plate, filling these grooves, and the surface wiped clean. Finally, paper was pressed against the plate, transferring the ink and creating the image we see. What I find fascinating about etching is how it democratizes art making. It is more easily available to the masses because the image can be endlessly reproduced. This print is a scene of tranquil Dutch scenery rendered through a thoroughly modern process. The contrast encourages us to rethink traditional distinctions between art and craft.