Dimensions: height 54 mm, width 54 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This is a letter P, made anonymously, using the technique of engraving. Engraving involves cutting lines into a metal plate, inking the surface, and then wiping it clean so that the ink remains only in the incised lines. When paper is pressed against the plate, a print is created. The process demands careful control and precision, making the most of the materials. Here, the story of Paul's conversion on the road to Damascus is cleverly woven into the shape of the letter. Notice how the lines of the engraving not only define the forms but also create a dramatic sense of light and shadow, emphasizing the divine intervention. The texture of the paper itself adds to the tactile quality of the print, inviting close inspection. This print offers a glimpse into the world of early printmaking and the skilled labor involved in its production. Appreciating the material process of engraving allows us to see beyond the image and understand the artistry that brings it to life.
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