Christ Crowned with Thorns 1510 - 1563

Andrea Schiavone made this print, "Christ Crowned with Thorns," using etching and engraving techniques. The contrast between these processes – one using acid to bite into the metal plate, the other using a burin to directly incise lines – allows for a rich visual texture. Look closely, and you will see how Schiavone uses the etched lines to create tonal depth and atmospheric perspective. It conveys a sense of drama and chaos, fitting for the subject matter. The engraved lines, by contrast, define the figures and architectural elements with precision. This speaks to Schiavone’s technical skill, as well as the division of labor that would have characterized printmaking at this time. It reminds us that even in what we think of as the realm of ‘fine art,’ the modes of production have everything to do with the final result. The combination of etching and engraving isn’t just a technical choice; it's a reflection of broader social and economic conditions. By understanding the material processes, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artwork's meaning and its place in history, challenging the traditional separation of art and craft.