The Israelites Gathering Manna 1542 - 1552

Battista Franco made this print, "The Israelites Gathering Manna," around the mid-16th century. It's made from ink on paper, using the etching technique. The etched lines define the contours of the figures and landscape, building up tone through hatching. Look closely and you can see the variations in the line's weight and density, creating a sense of depth and texture. The labor-intensive etching process required skill and precision, reflecting a time when craft was highly valued. The detailed rendering highlights the artist's technical ability, but also emphasizes the social context of the biblical scene. Franco's print illustrates the story of the Israelites gathering manna in the desert, a divine provision in a time of need. The act of gathering itself becomes a metaphor for labor, community, and dependence on a higher power. By focusing on the materiality and process behind this print, we gain a deeper understanding of its artistic and cultural significance, and move beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.