Maria met Kind 1570 - 1609

Annibale Carracci made this print, *Maria met Kind,* with metal and ink. In the process of making an engraving, the artist uses a tool called a burin to cut lines into a metal plate. Ink is then applied to the plate, and the surface is wiped clean, leaving ink only in the carved lines. Finally, the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. The character of the engraved line has everything to do with the final image. Look at the areas of shadow on Mary’s face, or in the folds of her dress. Notice how Carracci has cross-hatched the lines to create a sense of volume and depth. The precision of engraving allowed Carracci to achieve a high level of detail, capturing the softness of the baby’s skin and the texture of Mary’s hair. The act of engraving demanded technical skill and patience, reflecting the values of craftsmanship. Considering this acknowledges the labor involved, as well as the cultural significance of printmaking as a means of disseminating images and ideas.