Boaz en Ruth 1751 - 1816

Reinier Vinkeles created this print, Boaz en Ruth, using engraving, a process with a long and fascinating history. The engraver painstakingly cuts lines into a metal plate, which are then filled with ink and printed. Look closely, and you can appreciate the skilled labor that went into this image. The linear quality of the engraving emphasizes the landscape and the figures, drawing attention to the biblical scene of Boaz and Ruth amidst a harvest. Engraving has often been used for reproduction, to disseminate images widely, and was the method of choice before photography became widespread. Vinkeles's choice of engraving elevates the status of the depicted scene while simultaneously making it accessible to a broader audience, reflecting the growing influence of print culture in the eighteenth century and the relationship between art, commerce, and social values. The act of engraving itself embodies a blend of craft and industry, mirroring the themes of labor and sustenance present in the scene. This reminds us of the vital role of materials, techniques, and the social context of artistic creation.