About this artwork

The engraving process was developed from the technique used by goldsmiths to decorate metalwork and employs a hardened steel tool, called a burin, to cut the design into the surface of a metal plate. Mellan was one of the leading engravers of his time and produced this print to showcase his exceptional technical virtuosity. The entire image has been formed using a single engraved line, which spirals outwards from the centre, the changing width of the line producing the contours.

Updated before 2020

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Claude Mellan

Claude Mellan