Boetvaardige Maria Magdalena 1660 - 1726

This is an engraving of a penitent Mary Magdalene, made anonymously, using a technique that democratized image production. Engraving involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Here, the fine, deliberate lines create a range of tonal effects, from the dark shadows of the cave to the bright highlights on Mary’s face and dress. Engraving emerged as a crucial method for disseminating information and artistic ideas. It allowed for the reproduction of images on a scale previously unimaginable, contributing to the growth of visual culture and shaping public perception. The engraver's skill in translating an image into a series of lines also speaks to the value placed on technical mastery and craftsmanship in the production of art. Looking at this print, we can appreciate the labor and skill involved in its creation, and the way in which it reflects broader social and economic forces at play.