Grafmonument voor Johannes Schelhammer before 1736

François van Bleyswijck made this print of a grave monument for Johannes Schelhammer using etching and engraving. Think about the labor involved. The artist, a master of line, would have painstakingly cut into the metal plate. This act of incising creates the fine lines we see, with their sharp, precise quality. The density of these lines create the overall illusion of light and shadow that defines the form. It's not just a visual representation but also a record of skilled handwork. The print also acts as a material record of social status. It commemorates the life of Johannes Schelhammer with an elaborate monument, highlighting his importance. This speaks to the consumption patterns of the time, where commissioning such works was a sign of affluence. Ultimately, the print is an object deeply embedded in its time, reflecting not only artistic skill but also social structures, modes of production, and the cultural values.