Leven van de heilige Dominicus 1604

This print, ‘Life of Saint Dominic,’ was created anonymously using the intaglio process. This is a method where an image is incised into a metal plate, often copper, which then holds ink for printing. What is striking here is the contrast between the detailed depiction of the Saint at the center, and the sequential scenes framed around him. This speaks to two different economies of labor. The central image likely required a highly skilled engraver to capture the nuances of form and shadow. The surrounding scenes, while telling a story, are less refined, perhaps reflecting a division of labor within the workshop. Consider the repetitive action of pressing the plate onto paper, an early form of mass production aimed at disseminating religious narratives. The print, therefore, isn’t just an artwork; it’s a testament to the social and economic structures of its time, blurring the lines between devotional object, commercial product, and artistic expression.