The Return from Egypt 1620 - 1677

This print, The Return from Egypt, was made by an anonymous artist, using the technique of engraving. Look closely, and you will see how this process influences the work’s appearance. The image is built up from thousands of tiny lines, each one carefully incised into a metal plate. Ink would have been applied to the plate, then wiped off the surface, remaining only in the engraved lines. Paper is then pressed against the plate, transferring the image. The engraver’s skill is evident in the subtle gradations of tone and texture. The cross-hatching creates areas of shadow, while the delicate lines suggest the soft folds of fabric, or the leaves of the palm tree. This highly skilled tradition belongs to a history of creative practices, one where manual dexterity and precision were highly valued. The amount of work involved in such a print is considerable, reflecting a significant investment of time and labour. By understanding the process of engraving, we can appreciate the full meaning of this artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.