Hercules driving off the cattle of Geryon, at the right are the nymphs of Hesperides 1531 - 1576

Giulio Bonasone made this print, Hercules driving off the cattle of Geryon, sometime in the 16th century. The process of creating an engraving like this begins with a metal plate, usually copper, into which the design is incised with a tool called a burin. Look closely, and you’ll see that the image is built up from many carefully placed lines. It's labor-intensive work. The varying width and density create a wide range of tones and textures. Prints like this were luxury items, prized for their detail and artistic merit. They also served to disseminate images, allowing those who couldn't afford original paintings to still engage with classical subjects and artistic ideas. Consider the skill involved in translating the dynamism of Hercules's labor into a static, reproducible image. The artistic and technical skills elevated printmaking from a mere trade to a respected art form. This engraving bridges the gap between craft and fine art, reminding us of the value in skilled handwork.