Tobias maakt zijn vader weer ziende 1699 - 1712

This print, “Tobias makes his father see again,” was made by Gaspard Duchange, likely in France in the early 18th century, using an engraving technique. This process involves cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then using a press to transfer the image onto paper. Here, the material qualities and the process have a profound influence on the image. Engraving allows for incredible detail, which we see in the figures’ expressions and the textures of the fabrics. The contrast between light and shadow is also really striking, achieved through the density and depth of the engraved lines. The engraving technique itself is significant. It’s a skilled craft, demanding precision and control. It also speaks to a broader history of printmaking, which has served as a means of disseminating knowledge, religious, and political messages. The amount of work involved in creating such a detailed print is substantial, highlighting the labor and skill involved in its production. Considering the materials and the making process helps us appreciate not just the image, but also the time, skill, and cultural context that shaped its creation. It challenges the idea that fine art is somehow separate from craft, revealing their close relationship.