Art Institute of Chicago

Saint Michael

Artist unknown

Date

n.d.

Medium

Engraving (niello) in black on tan laid paper

Culture

Italy

Department

Prints and Drawings

Institution

Art Institute of Chicago

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.

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