About the Image:
The image is a colored etching with an embossed border, featuring a collection of Christian saints, with Saint George at the center surrounded by Saint Antony of Padua, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, Saint Peter the Apostle, Saint Philomena, Saint Anne, Saint Barbara, Saint John the Baptist, and Saint Agnes. The saints are depicted within individual medallions, a style common in religious iconography, which allows for the veneration of multiple saints within a single artwork.
The technique of etching involves using acid to cut into the unprotected parts of a metal surface to create a design in intaglio (incised) in the metal. This particular piece also features hand coloring, a common practice to bring vibrancy and individuality to prints, and an embossed border which adds a tactile, decorative element to the work.
The text below the image is in German, which helps place the artwork within a German cultural context. The phrase "Aus guten Herzen bring ich Dir Dies heil. Bild als Angedenken hier." translates to "From a good heart, I bring you this holy image as a keepsake here." It suggests that the image was intended as a devotional object, possibly a gift meant to convey blessings or protection.
Based on the style of the etching, the coloration, and the typography used in the German text, this artwork likely dates from the mid to late 19th century. During this time, there was a revival of interest in medieval and early Renaissance art forms, which this piece echoes. The combination of etching, hand coloring, and embossing would have made this a special devotional item, accessible to a wider audience than a single, hand-painted image would be.
Given these characteristics, a more precise dating would likely place this etching in the latter half of the 19th century, a period known for such devotional prints. However, without a more specific historical context or provenance, it would be challenging to narrow down the date further.
