Ruben, from The Twelve Sons of Jacob 1584 - 1594

Jacques de Gheyn II created "Ruben, from The Twelve Sons of Jacob" using engraving, a printmaking technique that demands meticulous skill. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into a copper plate. Consider how this process shapes the image before you. The density of lines creates areas of dark shadow, while sparse lines suggest lighter tones. This is especially evident in the folds of Ruben's clothing and the texture of his skin. The controlled, deliberate nature of engraving lends the image a sense of formality. Engraving, unlike the immediacy of drawing or painting, requires planning and precision. It was a commercial medium, used for disseminating images widely. By mastering this craft, de Gheyn could circulate his artistic vision and make a name for himself in the print market. Ultimately, understanding the labor and skill involved in engraving allows us to appreciate the artistry embedded in this print. It's a reminder that even in the realm of reproducible images, the hand of the artist remains essential.