Ludwig II, King of Hungary 1546

Augustin Hirschvogel created this engraving of Ludwig II, King of Hungary, in 1546. Engraving is an intaglio process, where the artist carefully carves lines into a metal plate, often copper. Ink is then forced into these grooves, and the plate is pressed onto paper. Consider the texture of the image: the sharp lines, the dense cross-hatching that creates shading, and the overall precision. This wasn't a quick sketch; it required meticulous labor. The artist uses this technique to depict the King's ornate armor. Every plate, rivet, and articulation is carefully rendered to convey the wealth, power, and status of the King. Armor-making was a highly skilled craft in its own right, and its depiction here shows an appreciation for detailed workmanship. Hirschvogel’s work speaks to the power and skill of the engraver, as well as the armor-maker, challenging any strict separation between art and craft. It reminds us that images, like objects, are made.