Het laatste oordeel, blad C 1530 - 1582

This print of The Last Judgement was made by Giorgio Ghisi in the 16th century, using engraving, a process involving carving into a metal plate to hold ink. Ghisi was one of the most skilled printmakers of his day. The lines of the engraving vary in thickness and density, creating a stunning range of tones. You can almost feel the weight and density of the figures in the image. The way Ghisi uses the graphic language of engraving feels intrinsically linked to Renaissance values, such as precision, detail, and technical mastery. It also speaks to the rise of printmaking as a commercial enterprise. Prints like this one were produced in multiples, making art more accessible to a wider audience. So, while the subject matter deals with weighty theological themes, the means of production reflect the emerging dynamics of labor, production, and consumption. Ghisi’s work bridges the gap between artistic skill and commercial enterprise, challenging our notions of high art and craft.