Hans Brosamer 

This print of Hans Brosamer, made by Thomas Hirschmann, reveals much about the hierarchies of artistic skill in its time. The medium itself, engraving, is key. Lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The effect here is one of tremendous detail, a testament to Hirschmann’s skill with the burin – the tool used for cutting the lines. Look closely and you’ll see how he has varied the weight of the lines to create a sense of volume and texture. Yet, the status of printmaking has historically been lower than that of painting or sculpture. It was considered a reproductive art, and the engraver was often seen as a mere technician, translating the ideas of others. In this case, Hirschmann is representing another artist, Brosamer. But by mastering this intricate process, he elevates the status of his craft, asserting its own value within the broader artistic landscape.