Groep ridders drinkt uit een bron 1879

Désiré Mathieu Quesnel created this print of knights drinking from a spring using engraving, a skilled, labor-intensive process. The image is made by incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the image. The engraver's skillful hand is evident in the intricate details and textures of the scene. Notice how the lines create a sense of depth and shadow, bringing the scene to life. Engraving, unlike some other printmaking methods, demands precision and control, with each line carefully carved to create the desired effect. The process leaves little room for error. This meticulous, artisanal approach is a far cry from today's digital printing, reflecting a time when the value of the artwork was directly tied to the investment of time and skilled labor. In this context, Quesnel's print reminds us that art-making is not just about the final image, but also the dedication and craft involved in its creation.