H. Franciscus c. 1633 - 1650

This print, depicting Saint Francis, was made by Cornelis Galle I in the early 17th century, using engraving. Galle carefully cut lines into a copper plate, which would then be inked and printed onto paper. Look closely, and you'll see how the density and direction of these lines create tone and texture. The sharp, controlled nature of the engraving process lends itself to the crisp detail of Francis’s robes and the dramatic heavenly light. Printmaking was a key technology in early modern Europe, allowing for the wide distribution of images. It's worth considering the labor involved: the skilled artisan creating the plate, the press operators making the prints, and the networks of trade that circulated these images. This print is not just a devotional object; it is a product of a complex system of production and consumption, reflective of a changing economy. By appreciating the materials and processes behind this work, we gain a deeper understanding of its historical and cultural significance.