Artwork
New ABC Booklet: P
New ABC Booklet: P is a print by the Baroque artist Lucas Kilian. It dates from 1627 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
New ABC Booklet: P, created by German engraver and etcher Lucas Kilian in 1627, is a small print featuring 23 tiny woodcut letters arranged to spell simple German words, such as 'Apfel' and 'Brot'. The work is characterized by deep shadows around the edges of each letter, lending a three-dimensional appearance.
Subject & Meaning
The subject of this engraving is the German alphabet, presented in a manner designed for educational purposes, reflecting the early 17th-century emphasis on printed instructional materials for learning. The simple words formed by the letters, like 'Apfel' (apple) and 'Brot' (bread), suggest a focus on basic vocabulary for young learners.
Technique & Style
Executed by Lucas Kilian himself, the engraving showcases his skill as an engraver. The rough lines and deep shadows around each letter contribute to a distinctive, somewhat rustic aesthetic, which can be interpreted as having a playful, charming quality.
History & Provenance
Part of a series by Lucas Kilian, known for his contributions to the Custos workshop in Augsburg, 'New ABC Booklet: P' is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. Kilian's body of work includes portraits, mythological scenes, and anatomical illustrations, alongside educational prints like this one.
Context
Created in 1627, this work aligns with the period's educational trends, which valued printed materials for teaching. As an engraver, Kilian's primary medium was metal, but this project, with its woodcut letters, highlights his versatility. The piece's educational intent positions it within a broader effort to standardize and disseminate literacy skills.
Legacy
While 'New ABC Booklet: P' may not be Kilian's most renowned work, it contributes to the understanding of 17th-century educational practices and the role of printmaking in literacy education. Its charm and simplicity also reflect the personal touch of its creator, contrasting with more formal subjects he tackled in his portfolio.
Artist & collection
Artist
Lucas Kilian (Lucas Kilianus Augustanus; 1579–1637) was a German engraver and etcher from the Kilian family of engravers in Augsburg.
