Lucas de Evangelist 1671 - 1672

This print, "Lucas de Evangelist," was made by Gilles Rousselet in the 17th century, using engraving. This is an intaglio printmaking technique, where the image is incised into a metal plate, then filled with ink and pressed onto paper. The dense hatching and cross-hatching creates a rich tonal range that gives depth to the image. This method requires skill and patience, as each line is carefully carved into the metal. Consider the labor involved in creating such a detailed image. In Rousselet's time, printmaking was a key means of disseminating images, effectively an early form of mass media. The choice of religious subject matter speaks to the cultural context, where the church was a dominant force. Printmaking allowed for wider circulation of religious iconography, influencing devotion and religious knowledge. The material and making of this print, therefore, are inseparable from its cultural and social significance, demonstrating the critical role of craft in shaping history.