Initiaal C met Caritas 1507 - 1550

This tiny initial ‘C’ with Caritas is an engraving, made anonymously. Engraving is an intaglio process, meaning that the image is incised into a surface, in this case, a metal plate. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to cut lines into the metal, creating grooves that hold ink. The plate is then inked, the surface wiped clean, and paper pressed against it with great force. The ink is drawn out of the grooves, leaving a precise, detailed image. This print is incredibly small, yet contains a whole world. The technique of engraving lends itself to the depiction of complex scenes, allowing for fine lines and intricate details. But beyond its technical aspects, this print speaks to the cultural and social significance of the medium itself. Prints like this one were a means of disseminating religious imagery widely, making it accessible to a broad audience. By considering the materials, the making, and the context, we gain a deeper understanding of the meaning and significance of this tiny, but powerful, work of art.