Don Baltasar Carlos 1904

Timothy Cole created this image of Don Baltasar Carlos as an engraving, a printmaking technique that demands careful labor. The process begins with a metal plate, traditionally copper. Using a tool called a burin, the artist carves lines directly into the metal. These lines don't just define shapes; they hold the ink that will eventually transfer to paper. The deeper and wider the line, the more ink it holds, creating darker tones. Look closely, and you'll see how Cole meticulously built up the image through countless tiny marks. Consider the sheer effort involved in rendering the textures of the boy’s clothing and the horse's mane. Engraving was a skilled profession, demanding years of training. Cole was one of the leading American practitioners of his day, celebrated for his ability to translate paintings into black and white prints. By appreciating the labor involved in creating an engraving like this, we understand how the social context of production shaped its aesthetic. It bridges the gap between high art and craft, showing how both rely on skilled handwork.