Acid on Metal: The Art of Etching and Aquatint chronicles the development of etching from the 16th century, through the golden ages of Rembrandt van Rijn and Francisco de Goya, to the medium’s revitalization and modernization under Pablo Picasso, James Abbott McNeill Whistler, and contemporary masters such as Brice Marden and Richard Stankiewicz. Prints by Rembrandt, including Jupiter and Antiope, display the master’s fluid handling and experimental style that inspired generations of printmakers to follow. Goya, who created works of a sharp satirical and political nature, showcases his mastery of aquatint with The Cid Campeador Attacking a Bull with His Lance.

The second in a series of print exhibitions at the MFAH examining the varied techniques in printmaking, Acid on Metal focuses on the intaglio printmaking process of etching and the related technique of aquatint, methods that require the biting of a metal plate with acid to incise a design.  Exploring various etching techniques as unique vehicles of expression, this show features a selection of more than 50 works on paper drawn primarily from the MFAH collection. Also on view are tools, plates, and books to enhance the audience’s understanding of the creative force of etching from the 16th century to today.