The Calling of the Apostles St. James and St. John 1839

This is “The Calling of the Apostles St. James and St. John” an engraving made by Friedrich August Pflugfelder sometime in the mid-19th century. Engraving, as a method, is fascinating. Here, the artist incised an image onto a metal plate, likely copper. This was a skilled and laborious task, demanding precision and control to create the fine lines and details that define the composition. Ink would then be applied to the plate, filling the engraved lines, and the excess wiped away from the surface. Finally, paper was pressed against the plate, transferring the ink and revealing the image. Think of it: each print requires the entire process to be repeated. It speaks volumes about the value placed on reproduction and dissemination of images during this period, particularly religious ones like this. The labor invested in the creation of each print underscores the significance of the message it conveys, and the reach of the church. In this way, even a humble print can give insight into the cultural values of its time.