Sankt Matthæus 1598 - 1601

Nicolaes de Bruyn made this engraving of Saint Matthew. Note the stark contrast of black ink on white paper, achieved by meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, inking it, and pressing it onto paper. The material qualities of the print allow for a highly detailed representation. See how the fine lines create texture in Matthew's robe and beard, defining form and depth. His attribute, a carpenter's square, symbolizes the idea of building faith. Matthew's Gospel is written for a Jewish audience, and attempts to demonstrate that Jesus is the Messiah. In the background, the figures being cast out of Heaven into Hell. Printmaking in the 17th century was deeply tied to social issues of labor and consumption, and this work is no different. Producing prints involved skilled craftsmanship, time, and resources. The act of printing was a meticulous and painstaking manual process, one that required physical labor. Consider how this affects your understanding and appreciation of the artwork. It encourages us to look beyond the image and appreciate the value of materials and making.