Maria in de wolken en zes heiligen 1745

John Baptist Jackson created this print, *Maria in de wolken en zes heiligen*, using a woodcut technique. Jackson worked in the 18th century, at a time when printmaking was essential for disseminating images and ideas, but he chose a relatively antiquated method. Woodcuts involve carving a design into a block of wood and then printing the raised surface. The resulting aesthetic is characterized by bold lines and strong contrasts. However, Jackson pushed this technique to its limits, creating tonal gradations and fine details that are unexpected in woodcut. The image, with its depiction of religious figures, is meticulously crafted, resembling an engraving or etching more than a typical woodcut. By mastering a laborious process, Jackson demonstrated an impressive level of skill. His work prompts us to consider the value of craftsmanship in an age of mass production, and the subtle but significant messages conveyed by the choice of materials and making methods. This wasn’t just a picture; it was a demonstration of what wood could do.