Mary Magdalene 1891

Timothy Cole’s "Mary Magdalene," is an engraving on laid paper. Engraving is an intaglio printmaking process, where the image is incised into a plate using a tool called a burin. The incised lines hold ink, and when pressed against paper, the image is transferred. Cole was a master of this painstaking technique, which demanded precision and control. Look closely, and you can see how the varying depths and widths of the engraved lines create tonal variations, lending depth and form to the figure of Mary Magdalene. The choice of engraving as a medium is significant. In Cole's time, it was a primary method for reproducing images, making art accessible to a wider audience through printed reproductions. This speaks to the democratizing potential of printmaking, allowing for the dissemination of art beyond elite circles. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed engraving. The process required skilled craftsmanship and hours of meticulous work, reflecting the values of industry and precision. In this context, we can appreciate the dedication and artistry that went into bringing this image to life.