Aanbidding door de herders 1629 - 1740

This is Christoffel van Sichem II’s “Adoration of the Shepherds,” a woodcut print from the early 17th century. Consider how this image was made: a design carefully cut into a block of wood, then inked and pressed onto paper. This is not just a picture; it’s the result of skilled labor. Woodcuts like this were relatively inexpensive to produce, which is why printed images became so popular in the 17th century. Now, look at the details Sichem achieved with simple lines and shading. Notice how the texture of the angel's wings contrasts with the rough garments of the shepherds. Think about the labor involved in creating these intricate details, and how they convey a sense of reverence and wonder. Woodcut allows for multiples to be made quickly and efficiently, embodying the transition to industrial modes of production. Sichem’s choice of materials and techniques speaks to a broader shift in artmaking, where craft and fine art traditions intersect to create meaningful works for a wider audience.