Christ on the cross and the city Jerusalem 1609 - 1672

This is an engraving, Christ on the cross and the city Jerusalem, a print made by an anonymous artist. The image is created by carefully incising lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. It is not necessarily what you'd call traditional art materials, but the amount of skill involved should be recognized. The stark contrast between light and shadow gives a dramatic effect to the scene of the crucifixion and the city of Jerusalem. The artist employed specialized tools and techniques to achieve fine details. The process of creating this print involved significant labor, a skilled artisan carefully carving the image into the metal plate, working slowly with precision. This work reflects the social context of its time. Prints like this were often made for religious or educational purposes, to be widely disseminated. The reproductive nature of printmaking allowed for images and ideas to be shared among a wider audience. The artist was an important part of a wider system of faith, politics, and consumption, even if we don't know who he or she was.