H. Hieronymus 1586 - 1650

This engraving of St. Jerome was made in the Netherlands in the late 16th or early 17th century by Cornelis Galle I. The primary material here is the copperplate, which is incised to hold ink and then printed on paper. The visual character is all about line, which Galle used to describe everything from the saint's muscular physique to the textures of the lion at the upper left, and other symbolic objects. The density of these lines testifies to the tremendous effort required for such a work. In Galle's time, printmaking was an essential industry, and the division of labor allowed for impressive feats of production. Galle was part of a large family of printmakers, so he had the advantage of a familial workshop and the expertise that came with it. Looking at this print, we can appreciate not only the artistry but also the sophisticated system that made it possible.