David en Natan 1579 - 1643

This print, David en Natan, was made by Johann Sadeler the First around the turn of the 17th century. It's made with an engraving technique, where lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The precision of these lines is remarkable, and the process demanded careful control and considerable time. Note the contrast between light and shadow achieved through the density of the engraved lines. The image depicts a scene of judgement, but the social context of its making is just as compelling. Prints like these facilitated the spread of imagery and ideas during the early modern period, acting as a powerful tool for disseminating information. So, while the print depicts a powerful biblical narrative, its material reality speaks to the rise of print culture and its wider social implications. By considering the labor involved in its production and the historical context of printmaking, we can understand the rich layers of meaning embedded in this seemingly simple image, which bridges the gap between fine art and craft.