Portret van Jacques Savary 1666 - 1707

Curator: Here at the Rijksmuseum, we have an engraving dating from 1666 to 1707, "Portret van Jacques Savary", created by Gérard Edelinck. Editor: My first thought is of the immense texture created within a monochrome palette. The intricacy in the rendering of the hair and fabrics is incredible. Curator: Edelinck was renowned for his skill as an engraver, serving prominent clients within the French court, and portraits such as this would have served to enhance and disseminate their image and standing. Consider Savary himself—the subject's office and title are actually emblazoned within the engraving itself. It reads, "Jacques Savary, Counsellor to the King." Editor: It's certainly hard to ignore the detail with the seal. Tell me more about its artistic composition within the baroque style, and that oval frame that seems to almost thrust him forward. Curator: As with many engravings, this artwork would have started as a drawing. A metal plate would be painstakingly carved out based on this. It is likely that multiple prints were then created for distribution and sale, contributing to Edelinck's wealth and popularity in a booming market. In contrast to painting or sculpture, the print as a medium had relatively low production costs and could facilitate distribution on a much wider scale. Editor: That speaks to the practical role of art within its society: how images and artists functioned within complex networks of production and exchange. What I appreciate about this is that its purpose isn't necessarily what moves me. The lines themselves are stunning and the balance of the dark and light in contrast is remarkable. The eyes especially convey the essence of his status, don't you agree? Curator: Indeed. Hopefully our visitors will equally enjoy this fine example of baroque portraiture. Editor: It definitely speaks volumes, even silently, about how status, material, and method combine within this tiny but impactful piece of social history.