Oordeel van Salomo 1560 - 1595

This print, "The Judgement of Solomon," is by an anonymous artist and was made using the intaglio technique. This involves incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then using a press to transfer the image onto paper. The dense network of lines creates a range of tones and textures. Notice how the artist used hatching to build up shadows, giving depth to the figures and architectural setting. The contrast between light and dark emphasizes the drama of the scene. Prints like these were relatively affordable and easily reproduced, allowing for the wide dissemination of stories and moral lessons. The skilled labor required to create the printing plate, and operate the press, reflects a complex relationship between art, craft, and early capitalist modes of production. By understanding how this print was made, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic and social context in which it was created, challenging our notions of fine art.