Prentalbum met scenes uit het Nieuwe Testament in cartouches c. 1570 - 1610

This is a print album featuring scenes from the New Testament, created by an artist known only as Monogrammist HSD. Bound in a simple leather cover, the book holds a series of printed images, likely etchings or engravings. The leather itself speaks to the book’s original function: protection. Leather binding involves tanning the animal hide, stretching, and adhering it to the book’s spine – a labor-intensive process. The album's compact size suggests a personal, portable object, made for individual contemplation or study rather than public display. The prints within offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art and industry. Printmaking allowed for the mass production of images, making religious narratives more accessible than ever before. Yet, at the same time, skilled handwork was essential in carving the plates and pulling each impression, reminding us of the vital role craft played in the early modern world. By considering the materials, making, and context, we can better understand its cultural significance.