Those select few engravers who receive the opportunity to study under an engraving artist during Grand Masters will be prepared for the 2009 event like never before.

This year, instructor Martin Strolz of Austria wrote and compiled a 54-page textbook specifically for the students of his Grand Masters course. This textbook is filled with examples like the work shown here engraved by Strolz.

Strolz prepared this piece for his students to view as an example of the ornamental design work in the course. Most students will be ready to get right into engraving the usable gun plate while learning as much as possible from Strolz. After engraving the framing, students will start engraving a game scene using Austrian relief techniques.

Although five days won't seem like enough time to fully absorb all the experience and knowledge master Martin Strolz has to offer, the week will be an event that these engravers will never forget.