The Invention of Copper Engraving, from Nova Reperta
c. 1591
Medium
Engraving in black on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
Image/sheet, trimmed within platemark: 20.2 × 27.3 cm (8 × 10 3/4 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
200659
Rights
Public Domain
Art Historical Context
In the late 16th century, engraver Theodoor created *The Invention of Copper Engr*, a captivating plate from the *Nova Reperta* (Latin for "New Discoveries Designed by Jan van der Straet (Stradan), this engraving celebrates Renaissance innovations, with Galle's meticulous technique bringing to life the very process it depicts: a master engraver at work on a copper plate, surrounded by tools and apprentices. Printed in black ink on delicate ivory laid paper (20.2 × 27.3 cm), it exemplifies the fine detail possible with copper engraving, a breakthrough over coarser woodcuts. This self-referenti...