Biblia Sacra. . .Lugduni 1554

Jean de Tournes created this woodcut illustration in Lyon as part of the "Biblia Sacra" publication. The stark contrast of black ink on paper immediately directs our eyes across the landscape of biblical narrative. The composition, with its meticulously etched lines, captures the scene with a documentary precision. The artist uses dense clusters of lines to define forms and create texture, contrasting the smooth, open spaces with areas of intense activity. Notice how the figures gather manna against a backdrop of tents and rugged terrain. The engraving technique, common in the 16th century, not only facilitates the mass production of images but also brings a unique aesthetic quality to the artwork. The meticulous use of line and form invites viewers to interpret the divine provision within the context of human labor and survival. This art is not static; it engages in a dialogue about faith, sustenance, and the visual communication of religious stories.