H. Joris en de draak 1711

This print of ‘H. Joris en de draak’ or Saint George and the Dragon, was made by Jacobus Harrewijn in the late 17th-early 18th century using an engraving technique. Engraving is a printmaking process that relies on the skilled use of metal tools to manually cut lines into a metal plate. The incised lines are then filled with ink, and the plate is pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Here, we can see Harrewijn expertly uses varied line weights to create the visual texture of smoke, scales, and fabric. Engraving was not only a means of artistic expression but also a key technology for disseminating images and information, playing a role in shaping public opinion and spreading knowledge during the early modern period. The labor-intensive process of engraving reflects a pre-industrial mode of production. The social context of this piece is rooted in the tradition of storytelling and moral instruction, particularly through religious narratives. Understanding the materials, making, and context of this engraving allows us to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance, highlighting the interplay between craft, design, and social communication.