Thomas van Villanova c. 1630 - 1802

This 17th-century print of Thomas van Villanova was made by an anonymous artist in Flanders. The technique used here is engraving, where the design is cut into a metal plate, ink is applied, and then the image is transferred to paper under pressure. Engraving demanded considerable skill, requiring precise control over the burin to create fine lines and intricate details, as you can see in the subject’s robes. The texture and depth achieved through this technique are remarkable, giving a tactile quality to a two-dimensional image. Consider the social context of printmaking at this time. It allowed for wider distribution of images, making art more accessible to a broader audience, reflecting changing patterns of consumption and ways of disseminating knowledge. Ultimately, understanding the materials and making processes allows us to appreciate the artistic skill and the broader cultural significance of works like this.