H. Hieronymus als kerkvader 1600

Jacob Matham created this print of Saint Jerome, one of the early fathers of the Christian church, using an engraving technique. This subtractive process involves meticulously incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the image. Look closely, and you'll notice the dense network of fine lines, which define the contours of Jerome's body, the folds of his drapery, and the texture of the books and the lion beside him. The quality of the lines is critical. The deeper and wider they are, the more ink they hold, resulting in darker tones in the print. Matham's skill lies in his control over this process, creating a range of tonal values that give the image depth and volume. The very act of engraving is laborious, demanding precision and patience. This craft-based approach stands in contrast to the mass-produced imagery of today, reminding us of the value placed on skilled handwork in the past. It is important to appreciate the intimate relationship between material, making, and meaning, when trying to fully understand the social and cultural significance of this work.