Christus als Salvator Mundi c. 1588 - 1622

Jacques Granthomme made this engraving, Christus als Salvator Mundi, using the printmaking technique of engraving. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to manually carve lines into a metal plate, likely copper. Ink is then applied to the plate and then wiped off the surface, remaining only in the carved lines. The plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the ink and creating a print. The texture of the paper and the depth of the engraved lines contribute to the overall visual experience. The medium's inherent quality of reproducibility would have allowed for the wide distribution of this image, making it accessible to a broader audience than a unique painting. Engraving demands both technical skill and artistry, reflecting a tradition of craftsmanship intertwined with religious messaging. Understanding the labor-intensive process and the social context in which this print was made enriches our appreciation, blurring the lines between craft and fine art.