Christ and his Disciples 1620 - 1670

This is Grégoire Huret's "Christ and his Disciples", made in the 17th century with engraving. Notice the fine lines that define the forms. Huret created these lines by using a tool called a burin to carve into a copper plate, a skilled and labor-intensive process. The incised lines hold ink, which is then transferred to paper, creating the print. Engraving like this has a fascinating connection to capitalism. It allowed for the mass production of images, making art accessible to a wider audience. It also required a specific kind of labor, transforming artists into skilled workers within a burgeoning market. The stark contrast and precise detail achieved through engraving create a sense of drama and clarity. The material qualities of the print, the paper and ink, contribute to its overall impact. Looking at art through the lens of its making reveals the social and economic forces that shaped its creation. This print isn't just a religious image, it's a product of its time, reflecting the changing world of art and labor.