An angel appearing to Hagar 1727 - 1772

Pietro Monaco made this print, "An angel appearing to Hagar", sometime in the 18th century, using etching and engraving on laid paper. The image shows the angel pointing Hagar towards a well to save her son Ishmael, but for me, the power of this image is in the lines. Look closely, and you'll see how this Old Master print was made with the skilled hand of an artisan and a sharp eye for capturing light and shadow. The linear quality of the etching and engraving is apparent, as the density of lines creates darker areas and conveys a sense of depth and volume. The contrast in the monochromatic artwork is striking and is achieved through intricate cross-hatching and stippling techniques. The artist's hand is evident in every stroke, a reminder of the labor involved in the printmaking process. The materiality of the paper provides a receptive surface for the ink, enhancing the tactile quality of the print. It is a great example of how so-called fine art depended on highly specialized craft skills.