Beschermengel Raphael leidt Tobias aan hand 1500 - 1527

Marcantonio Raimondi made this engraving, Beschermengel Raphael leidt Tobias aan hand, sometime in the early 16th century. The process of engraving involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed, transferring the design onto paper. Look closely, and you’ll see that the image is built up from many fine lines, a testament to Raimondi's skill and the labor-intensive nature of printmaking. The varying thickness and density of these lines create a sense of depth and texture, bringing the scene to life despite the limitations of a monochrome palette. In Raimondi's time, prints like these served as a means of disseminating images and ideas, making art more accessible to a wider audience beyond wealthy patrons. By embracing this relatively new technology, Raimondi played a crucial role in shaping the visual culture of the Renaissance. This work reminds us that the value and meaning of an artwork are often deeply intertwined with the materials and processes used in its creation.