Saint Matthew

About this work

This engraving shows an older man with a long beard sitting on a stone bench. He’s holding a book and looks like he’s deep in thought. A small child sits beside him, peering at the book too. The man’s robe drapes heavily, and his feet rest on a low stool. In the corner, there’s a sign with Latin writing. The artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture, especially in the folds of the robe and the man’s beard. This technique makes the scene feel three-dimensional even though it’s just ink on paper. Next, look up engraving to see how artists like this one carved detailed images into metal plates.