Christus verschijnt aan Maria Magdalena 1620 - 1692

Pietro del Po created this print, ‘Christ appears to Mary Magdalene,’ using etching techniques in the 17th century. The linear quality comes from the artist drawing through a waxy ground on a metal plate, which is then bitten by acid. This incised line holds ink, transferring the image to paper. The material qualities of the print—its monochrome palette and fine lines—allowed for easy reproduction and distribution, reflecting the rise of print culture during this period. Consider the labor involved; the skilled hand of the etcher carefully rendering the scene, line by line. The matrix is durable. This allows the image to be multiplied and disseminated widely, and this is key to understanding the social significance of the work. It brings religious narratives to a broader audience beyond the elite, connecting art to burgeoning capitalism. So, next time you encounter a print, remember it's not just an image, it’s a product of skillful labor and a reflection of its time.