Etching is an old art technique that uses an acid to “bite” away metal and create a certain design. It was first used to decorate metal armor, a process that dates back to Ancient Greece and even Egypt. After a time of being “lost” in the Dark Ages, armor etching was rediscovered in Medieval Europe. It soared in popularity by the 13th century. Customers flocked to exclusive armor etchers in southern Germany and northern Italy, who were revered like today’s famous fashion designers. These skilled artisans made the etchings by coating metal armor in a protective wax. Then they drew the design into the wax with a tool and dipped the armor into a weak acid. The acid “bites” the exposed metal and creates the design.
There’s something special about finding memorabilia with the same theme as your favorite place. This is especially true when you find artwork that features our little ribbon of sand called the Outer Banks.
Despite all the problems we encounter during the day, it’s a blessing to know that nature’s miracle of the sun gives us a colorful show each morning and night. The beauty of art allows us to enjoy it all the time in our homes and spaces.
Shiver me timbers! It’s time for a high-seas adventure in the art world. Blissful painted scenes of sailboats are an old and popular subject, especially in the Outer Banks.
