Urs Graf

Urs Graf (born c. 1485 in Solothurn, Switzerland; possibly died before October 13, 1528) is a Swiss Renaissance goldsmith, painter and printmaker (of woodcuts, etchings and engravings), as well as a mercenary soldier.

He only produces two etchings, one of which dates from 1513 – the earliest known etching for which a date has been established.

However, his woodcuts are considered of greater significance, particularly as he is attributed with the invention of the white-line woodcut technique, where white lines create the image on a black background.

He also produces a few engravings, including copies of works by Martin Schongauer and Albrecht Dürer.

He produces innovative drawings intended as finished works of art rather than just studies.