Maria zegent monniken, samen met de heilige Catharina en de heilige Cecilia 1611

This engraving, "Maria zegent monniken, samen met de heilige Catharina en de heilige Cecilia," was made by Theodoor Galle around the turn of the 17th century. As an engraving, the image is created through a subtractive process. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, likely copper. Ink is then applied to the plate, filling the carved lines, and the surface is wiped clean. Finally, paper is pressed against the plate, transferring the ink and creating the image. The sharp, precise lines of the engraving allow for a high level of detail, evident in the textures of the robes and the architectural setting. The process demands skilled labor, and the resulting prints could be reproduced and distributed widely, playing a role in the dissemination of religious imagery. The contrast between light and shadow is used to create a sense of depth and drama, drawing the viewer into the scene. This highly reproducible medium allowed the piece to circulate widely, shaping religious and cultural values.