Jonge vrouw en oude man 1475 - 1480

This image, known as "Young Woman and Old Man," was created using an engraving technique by the Master of the Amsterdam Cabinet. Engraving involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Consider the nature of the lines here. Note how precise and controlled they are, yet with a freedom in the artist’s rendering of form. This is a testament to the engraver’s skill. The process demands careful planning and execution, a true mastery of the material. Notice the subtle gradations of tone, achieved by varying the density and depth of the engraved lines. Engraving was not only a technique for artistic expression, but also a means of reproduction and dissemination of images. It made art accessible to a wider audience, playing a role in the development of visual culture. By appreciating the artistry and labor involved in creating this engraving, we can look beyond the image itself and gain insight into the values and social dynamics of the time.