Jezus Sirach en de personificatie van Gods wijsheid 1634

This print, depicting Jesus Sirach, was made by Cornelis Galle I in the early 17th century, using the technique of engraving. Look closely and you can see the lines incised into the metal plate, which would have been painstakingly carved using a tool called a burin. This was a highly skilled, labor-intensive process, demanding both technical precision and artistic vision. The very act of creating such an intricate image was a testament to the engraver's dedication and mastery. The resulting print would have been relatively reproducible, able to disseminate religious messages widely and efficiently. This reflects the growing importance of printmaking as a tool for communication and propaganda during the early modern period. Considering this artwork, we begin to understand the value of considering materials, processes, and social context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork, and challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.