De verloren zoon als varkenshoeder c. 1560 - 1595

Julius Goltzius created this print, "The Prodigal Son as Swineherd," using engraving, a process of incising lines into a metal plate. The sharp, precise lines that define the figures and landscape reveal Goltzius's skill with the burin. The material qualities of the metal plate allow for intricate detail, creating a rich texture that captures the scene's moral narrative and the labor of everyday life. Engraving was a meticulous process, requiring immense skill and patience. Each line had to be carefully planned and executed, reflecting a significant investment of time and labor. This print is part of a larger economy of images, used to disseminate stories and moral lessons widely in society. Understanding the making of this print helps us appreciate the work involved in its production, and its role in broader cultural and social contexts.