Gerechtigheid (Justitia) 1520 - 1562

This print of Justitia was made in the 16th century by an artist known only as Monogrammist AC. It was created using the technique of engraving, cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The magic of engraving is that the quality of line is directly related to the force exerted by the engraver. Look closely, and you can see the variety of marks used to describe the figure. This process demands intense concentration and a steady hand. Notice how the engraver used hatching and cross-hatching to create the illusion of three-dimensionality and texture. The act of engraving itself, with its precise, controlled movements, mirrors the concept of justice – a measured, deliberate process. This small print, requiring both skill and patience, reflects a society where craftsmanship and attention to detail were highly valued. By understanding the labor-intensive process behind this image, we gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural values embedded within it, challenging any separation of concept from making.