De vier evangelisten 1728

This print of the Four Evangelists was made by Gilliam van der Gouwen, probably in the early 18th century. It’s a small work, made through the labor-intensive process of engraving. Look closely, and you'll see how van der Gouwen used precise cuts into a metal plate to create this intricate scene. The varying depths and densities of lines, all achieved manually, give form to the figures and create a sense of depth. The social context of printmaking is crucial here. It was a key technology for disseminating information and imagery widely. This print would have been part of a larger system of production, with workshops full of skilled artisans replicating images for a broad public. The visual qualities, from the serene expressions of the Evangelists to the dramatic light effects, are direct results of this meticulous process. It's a testament to the engraver's skill and the cultural importance of printmaking at the time. By appreciating the material and the making, we move beyond just the religious subject, and understand the wider world of labor, skill, and distribution that the print embodies.