The Moon in its Final Quarter 1635

Claude Mellan's "The Moon in its Final Quarter" is a 1635 etching depicting a detailed and realistic representation of the lunar surface. This engraving showcases Mellan's mastery of the burin, a tool used to carve lines into a metal plate. Mellan's attention to detail and use of intricate, parallel lines to create a sense of light and shadow are characteristic of his work. The piece's scientific accuracy reflects the burgeoning interest in astronomy during the Renaissance, and it continues to fascinate viewers with its intricate depiction of the moon.