Het vrouwenbad 1496 - 1501

Hans Springinklee made this print, 'Het vrouwenbad', from a woodblock sometime between 1510 and 1530. The process of woodcut involves carving an image into the surface of a wood block, inking the remaining raised surface, and then pressing paper against it to transfer the image. The qualities of the wood itself influence the appearance of the print. Springinklee's design is rendered through bold, linear marks, which reflect the way the cutting tools interact with the wood grain. Look at the parallel lines used to create areas of shading. This repetitive labor demanded skill and precision, and was essential to the circulation of images and ideas in the 16th century. By appreciating the labor involved in the woodcut process, we can understand that the making of this image is just as vital as the image itself, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.