Diana 1581 - 1631

This print of ‘Diana’ was made by Jacob Matham around the turn of the 17th century. It's an engraving, meaning that the image was incised into a metal plate with a tool called a burin. Look closely, and you'll see that the composition is built up from thousands of tiny, precise lines. This was an incredibly labor-intensive process, requiring not only technical skill, but also patience and concentration. The texture of the print is influenced by the linear technique, and the subtle gradations of light and shadow that Matham has created. Prints like this were luxury goods, prized for their artistic quality. But they also played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas across Europe. This speaks to broader issues of labor, politics, and consumption in Matham’s time. The material and process of printmaking are essential to understanding its cultural significance. It’s a reminder that art is always the product of skilled work.