The Adoration of the Magi 1580 - 1590

Hendrick Goltzius created this print, The Adoration of the Magi, around 1594, using the technique of engraving. This process involves meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing it onto paper. The sharp, precise lines define forms and create tonal variations. As an engraving, this artwork is inherently reproducible. This brings the divine scene to a wider audience, beyond the wealthy elite who could afford unique paintings. Consider the labor involved, the skilled hand that guided the burin to produce this intricate design. The lines, so close together, give the print a sense of depth and texture, transforming a humble piece of paper into a window onto a sacred moment. Ultimately, understanding the materiality and making of this print connects it to the broader social and economic context of its time, challenging traditional notions of artistic value.