Artist unknownJapanese, 1550–1644
Saint Michael
May one see it?
Not receiving at present
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, United States
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- 2 days ago
- In this state since
- Aug 19, 2026
- Source
- The museum's own collection data
About the work
This tiny engraving may have been printed from a precious metal plate that was part of a larger decorative—possibly liturgical—object. The so-called niello print is thought to have originated in Italy and was made on a gold or silver plate engraved with a burin. The lines would be filled with niello, a thick black metal alloy that contrasted with the precious metals, and then nailed to a larger vessel. One or two proof impressions using ink and paper could be taken beforehand without damaging the engraving plate.
Art Institute of ChicagoCC BY 4.0
Particulars
- Accession number
- 1935.132
In the catalog
Sources
- Art Institute of Chicago: the museum's own open data · fetched 5 days ago
- Image: Art Institute of Chicago — CC0
