When we think of Old Masters, our minds often drift to the grand canvases of Rembrandt van Rijn, Albrecht Dürer, or Francisco de Goya. But did you know that these artists were also pioneers in the world of printmaking? Old Master prints, created by European artists between the 14th and early 19th centuries are more than just images on paper, they are remarkable works of art that offer a glimpse into the minds of some of history’s greatest artists. These prints, crafted with meticulous care, represent the evolution of printmaking.
What are Old Master prints?
Old Master prints refer to any printed image created in Europe from the inception of printmaking to the late 18th or early 19th centuries. This broad category encompasses a variety of printmaking techniques and includes works by many of history’s most celebrated and renowned artists. The era is considered to conclude with the work of Francisco de Goya (1746-1828), who is described as the last Old Master and first modern artist.
How were the first Old Master prints made?
Old Master prints emerged in Europe during the 14th century and were produced using the woodcut technique, a method that was already well-established in China. This process involved carving an image into a wooden block, leaving the surfaces to stand while the background was carved away. The raised areas were inked, and the block was pressed onto paper to transfer the image. This technique marked a significant development in European art, enabling artists to produce multiple copies of their work. Initially employed for religious texts and illustrations, woodcuts quickly became a common medium for detailed and expressive images.
How did Old Master printmaking techniques evolve over time?
As printmaking evolved, artists explored new techniques beyond the traditional woodcut. Engraving emerged across the several decades that followed, where images were meticulously incised onto metal plates using a burin. Ink was then rubbed into the grooves, and the plate was pressed onto paper, resulting in finely detailed and intricate prints.
By the 16th century, etching had gained popularity, offering a more fluid approach. Artists coated a metal plate with wax, drawing into it, then used acid to bite and create the image. This technique was embraced by Rembrandt, allowing him to create his distinctive dramatic lights and shadows.
How can the age of a print be determined?
Determining the age of an Old Master print is a nuanced process. One of the primary indicators is the quality of the impression – how rich, clear, and strong the impression appears. Early prints, especially those made during the artist’s lifetime, tend to be richer, clearer images. Another crucial aspect is the ‘state’ of the print, referring to the different versions produced as the artist made changes to the plate. Rembrandt’s 1656 portrait, Jan Lutma, Goldsmith, originally had a mostly blank background. Rembrandt later added a window to the plate and printed additional impressions, creating a new state. Examining these states can reveal the sequence and timing of a print’s creation. The paper used can additionally offer further clues. Watermarks embedded in the paper, such as the Bull’s Head watermark in Dürer’s prints, which he used until 1520, or the Foolscap in Rembrandt’s works, serve as significant signs that help experts date and authenticate a print.
Why are Old Masters important today?
Old Master prints hold immense value, not just for their historical significance, but also for their rarity and the insight that they offer into the artistic practices of the time. These prints are considered more accessible than paintings, carrying the same level of craftsmanship and artistic intent. As many of these prints were produced in limited numbers and have survived centuries of wear and tear, their scarcity adds to their allure and value. The careful preservation and study of these works allows us to connect with the rich artistic legacy of the Old Masters.
Hannah Ryan, Prints & Multiples Specialist
Top Image Left: Rembrant van Rijn (Dutch, 1606-1669), Jan Lutma, Goldsmith, etching, engraving and drypoint, first state
Right: Rembrant van Rijn (Dutch, 1606-1669), Jan Lutma, Goldsmith, etching, engraving and drypoint, second state
October 2024