Tranquil Harbor 

Lawrence Nelson Wilbur created this print of a tranquil harbor using the technique of wood engraving. This is a relief printing process in which the artist carves an image into the end grain of a block of wood, then applies ink to the remaining surface, and presses it onto paper. The character of the print is very much determined by the qualities of the wood itself. The hard surface allows for precise, detailed lines, and the density of the material ensures a high-quality, durable printing matrix. Wood engraving also has a long and fascinating history, with its roots in commercial printing and illustration. The technique was widely used for reproducing images in books, newspapers, and magazines before the advent of photography. The incredible amount of work involved in producing such a detailed image speaks to the labor-intensive nature of traditional printmaking. By understanding the material and the making process, we can better appreciate the artistry and skill of Lawrence Nelson Wilbur, and recognize the historical and social contexts that inform his work.