Apostel Tomas met winkelhaak 1517 - 1527

This print of Saint Thomas holding a right angle was made by an anonymous artist. Engraving is a reductive process. The artist carves lines directly into a polished metal plate, which are then filled with ink and printed. The stark contrast of the lines emphasizes the tools and labor used in the printmaking process. The right angle in the image suggests Thomas was a builder or architect. The print connects manual labor with religious virtues, and this symbolism challenges social hierarchies. It invites us to reflect on the value of skill and physical effort, rather than focusing solely on more traditional and intellectual pursuits. By emphasizing the skill, the artist elevates labor to a higher plane, suggesting that even the most humble occupations can be imbued with spiritual significance.