Staande Christus met rijksappel en H. Geest 1730 - 1769

This print of Christ with orb and Holy Spirit was made by Iven Besoet in the mid-18th century. It’s an engraving, meaning the image was incised into a metal plate, likely copper. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to create these lines, and then the plate would have been inked and pressed onto paper. The material properties of metal and the printing process influenced the visual language of this work. The sharp, precise lines of the engraving give the image a sense of clarity and detail. The use of hatching and cross-hatching creates tone and depth, while the stark contrast between black ink and white paper adds to the dramatic effect. Consider the labor involved in creating such a print: the skilled hand of the engraver, the time spent meticulously carving the image into the metal plate. This stands in contrast to our contemporary digital modes of production. By understanding the materials and processes behind this print, we can appreciate the artistry and effort that went into its creation, and reflect on how the means of production shape our visual culture.