Portret van Ferdinand VII, koning van Spanje 1818 - 1832

This is a portrait of Ferdinand VII, King of Spain, made by Friedrich Wilhelm Bollinger. The medium here is key: it's an engraving, a printmaking technique that allows for detailed, reproducible images. Think about the process involved, a skilled engraver using specialized tools to meticulously carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper, creating multiple identical images. The fine lines and delicate shading create the details of Ferdinand's face, his elaborate uniform, and the medals adorning his chest, all conveying an air of power and authority. The engraving is not just about likeness; it's about power, dissemination, and the industrialization of image-making. These prints were produced for wide distribution, creating a portable form of propaganda, where printed images like this helped to solidify his reign. Considering the labor, the skill, and the intent behind it, this seemingly simple portrait offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of art, politics, and production.