Original etching printed in black ink on laid paper. A fine impression of Usticke’s fourth state of six, Bartsch’s third and final state, showing the long vertical scratch to the left of Christ typical in this state, published as part of the Basan receuil sometime between 1789 and 1808. In excellent condition with margins all around.

Platemark: 3 1/2" x 2 5/8"
Sheet size: 4 3/8" x 3 5/16"
Catalogue reference: Bartsch 66, Hind 20, Biorklund-Barnard 30-D, Usticke 66 iv/vi

When Jesus was twelve years old his parents took him to Jerusalem on their annual Passover pilgrimage. After the holiday he remained behind without their knowing it. They thought he must have returned home with friends or relatives, but when they reached Nazareth and didn't find him there they rushed back to Jerusalem to look for him. "And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the Temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou dealt us this? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business? And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them, and came to Nazareth" (Luke: 2:41-52).