Martin Luther

About this work

This is a black-and-white engraving of a serious-looking man in a fur-lined robe. He sits at a desk piled with books and papers, his hands resting on an open book in front of him. The background shows shelves of more books, and the edges of the print are filled with tiny Latin words. The artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture, especially on the man’s face and clothing. This kind of detailed shading is typical of engravings from that time. Next, check out engraving to see how artists like this made prints.