Bijbelsche kinderprenten 1869 - 1908

This is a printed sheet of biblical scenes, made by Héliodore Joseph Pisan, a 19th-century French wood-engraver. What's immediately interesting is the printmaking technique. Wood engraving is a relief process, where the artist carves into the end-grain of a block of wood. This allows for very fine detail, as we can see in the delicate rendering of figures and landscapes. Pisan was a master of this technique, and his skill is evident in the subtle tonal variations he achieves, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere in these small scenes. Wood engraving was a popular method for illustrations during the 19th century, as it allowed for the mass production of images. This particular print was likely made for children, as the title suggests. The scenes depict stories from the Bible, and were probably intended to educate and entertain young audiences. By understanding the material and process of this print, we can appreciate the skill of the artist and the social context in which it was created. It’s not just a picture; it's a product of craft, technology, and cultural values.