Christuskind met rijksappel 1628 - 1670

This is Pieter de Jode the Younger's “Christuskind met rijksappel”, made in the 17th century. It is an engraving, a printmaking technique that relies on the skilled labor of the artist to incise an image into a metal plate. Notice how the network of fine lines creates areas of light and shadow, volume and texture. The figure of the Christ Child, the orb, and the snake at his feet, all emerge from the surface as a result of the artist’s direct engagement with the material. This painstaking process would have required years of training and practice to master, highlighting the crucial role of skilled labor in the production of this image. Beyond its aesthetic qualities, this print offers insights into the social and economic context of its creation. As a work intended for dissemination, it reflects the growing market for reproducible images, and the commercialization of art in the early modern period. By considering the materials, labor, and context involved, we gain a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between art, craft, and society.