Christ, Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier 17th century

This print, depicting Christ with Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier, was made by Pieter de Jode I, around the turn of the 17th century. It’s made using the intaglio process, where lines are incised into a metal plate, and then filled with ink to make a print. The incised lines create a striking contrast between light and shadow. Look closely, and you'll notice the fine details: the delicate folds of Christ’s robe, the intricate patterns on Ignatius’s vestments, and the ethereal quality of the clouds surrounding the figures. The texture of the paper also plays a role, as it absorbs the ink and adds depth to the image. Prints like this were relatively inexpensive, but they required an enormous amount of labor. Copperplate engraving was a highly skilled tradition, involving apprenticeships and workshops, and this print demonstrates de Jode’s mastery. In commissioning and circulating this image, the Catholic Church put this labor in service of the Counter-Reformation. By considering its materials, making, and context, we gain a richer understanding of the print's significance, moving beyond traditional notions of fine art to embrace the social and cultural dimensions of its creation.