Anne of Austria with the Young Louis XIV and Monsieur before the Virgin and Child (Anne d'Autriche déposant le régence du royaume de France entre les mains de la Vierge Marie) 1600 - 1688

This engraving, made by Claude Mellan, shows Anne of Austria entrusting the young Louis XIV to the Virgin Mary. It's made entirely from lines etched into a copper plate. Mellan was celebrated for his virtuoso technique. Look closely, and you'll see that the entire image is created by varying the thickness and density of single lines. This effect relies on a profound understanding of the burin's capabilities, its resistance, and the subtle pressures needed to modulate the cuts. With this method, shadow and form emerge. This technique, known as the single line method, was a labor-intensive process requiring exceptional skill and precision. The very intricacy of the engraving, and the labor required to create it, reflect the opulence and power of the monarchy it depicts. This blurring of labor and luxury challenges traditional distinctions between craft and fine art.