Lucretia en Sextus Tarquinius 1539

Heinrich Aldegrever made this small print, “Lucretia and Sextus Tarquinius,” in 1539, using the intaglio process of engraving. This technique involves cutting lines directly into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Aldegrever was a “Little Master,” one of a group of German printmakers known for their small-scale, highly detailed works. These prints, made from copper, circulated widely and became a vital way to spread imagery and ideas during the Reformation. Look closely, and you can see the dense network of lines that define the figures and create a sense of depth. The stark contrast between light and shadow amplifies the drama of the scene. Printmaking in the 16th century was a skilled craft, requiring meticulous labor and technical expertise. The relatively small size of these prints meant that they were affordable and accessible, bringing art into the homes of a broader audience. By embracing the medium of print, Aldegrever challenged traditional notions of artistic value, demonstrating that powerful and meaningful art could be created through accessible means.