Line engraving usually creates variations in tone through the juxtaposition and cross-hatching of lines. Claude Mellan (1598-1688) developed a unique style that relied only on curving parallel lines. He exploited the possibilities of the swelling and tapering of an engraved line to give greater or lesser emphasis to the line, depending on whether it represented an area of shade or light. Mellan demonstrated the virtuosity of his technique with this depiction of Christ. The image is formed almost entirely from a single line that spirals out from the nose. Christ’s head is depicted on the Sudarium. According to Christian tradition, this is the name of the veil of St Veronica, which she used to wipe Christ’s brow before the Crucifixion.