Feestmaal van Ahasveros 1645 - 1646

This is Christoffel van Sichem II's woodcut, "Feestmaal van Ahasveros". The image is made using a relief printing technique, where the artist carves away the areas of a wood block that will not hold ink. The remaining raised surface is then inked and pressed onto paper. Sichem demonstrates command of this meticulous process in the way he renders the interior scene. Take note of the strong contrast between light and shadow, achieved through careful cuts in the wood. The density of the lines creates a sense of depth and texture, from the draped fabrics to the ornate serving vessels and the figures. This texture also reflects the labor involved in producing the work. The cross-hatching, in particular, speaks to the considerable time and skill required to carve away the wood. This print is not only an aesthetic object but also a testament to the artist's craft. By appreciating the ways of making, and the hand of the artist, we can better understand its cultural value and significance.