Saint Christopher Carrying the Infant Christ c. 1521

Lucas van Leyden created this image of Saint Christopher carrying the Infant Christ sometime in the early 16th century, using the technique of engraving. This was a process deeply rooted in craft, requiring a skilled hand to carve lines into a copper plate with a burin, creating an image that could be reproduced many times over. The texture of the engraving, with its fine lines and cross-hatching, gives the image a remarkable sense of depth and detail. Look closely, and you can see how the engraved lines define the muscularity of Saint Christopher, and the folds of his robes. Engraving was a laborious process, demanding patience and precision. But it was also a medium that democratized art, making images accessible to a wider audience. In this sense, the work is deeply connected to the emerging culture of print and the expansion of visual literacy in Northern Europe. It bridges the gap between fine art and craft.