Medor and Angelica from Lodovico Ariosto's "Orlando Furioso", or Venus and Adonis embracing, set within a landscape 1495 - 1539

Marcantonio Raimondi made this engraving of Medor and Angelica in the early 16th century. It's made by incising lines onto a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the image. The magic of engraving lies in its capacity to create a range of tonal values through the density and depth of the engraved lines. Raimondi’s skill is evident in the fine, precise lines that define the figures' musculature and the intricate details of the landscape. The material qualities of the print—its texture and the contrast between light and shadow—add to its visual appeal. Engraving was not just a means of artistic expression, but also a craft with its own set of skills, tools, and traditions. The amount of work involved in producing this image is a reminder of the labor and skill that went into its creation. By focusing on the materiality and process of this artwork, we gain a deeper appreciation for its cultural and social significance.