Holy Family, St. Josephus gives the child some fruit that points to an angel 

This engraving of the Holy Family was made by Giovanni Battista Piranesi in the 18th century. Piranesi was known for his etchings, a printmaking technique that uses acid to create lines in a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Piranesi's work often combined a mastery of technique with a fascination for classical architecture and design. Here, we see the convergence of skilled labor and a specific cultural context. The lines created by the etching process give a sense of texture to the figures and their garments. Notice how the lines build up to create areas of shadow, giving depth and volume to the image. The act of creating an etching was labor-intensive, requiring careful preparation of the plate, precise drawing, and skillful application of acid. This level of craftsmanship elevates the print from a mere reproduction to a work of art in its own right. By appreciating the material and the making, we can move beyond the traditional boundaries of fine art and craft.