Kind met beschermengel 1687 - 1749

This print, titled ‘Kind met beschermengel’, or ‘Child with guardian angel’, was made by an anonymous artist using engraving, a process of incising an image onto a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The image's appearance is highly dependent on the engraver's skill. The lines, meticulously carved, define the forms and create subtle tonal variations. The process involves considerable labor, with each line contributing to the overall image. Engraving has a rich history, evolving from practical origins, like printing currency, to a mode of artistic expression. The engraver's tools and techniques, honed over generations, reflect a deep understanding of materials and a commitment to craft. This print, with its religious theme, likely served a devotional purpose, making art accessible to a wide audience. By recognizing the labor involved in its production and the social context in which it was created, we can appreciate the full meaning of this modest yet powerful work.