Portret van Pieter Mortier I

Hendrik Pothoven made this portrait of Pieter Mortier I, using graphite and possibly charcoal, to achieve its tonal range. Note the way Pothoven coaxes a range of values from his materials, from the highlights on Mortier's face to the deep shadows in the folds of his robe. This wasn't just a matter of technical virtuosity, but a demonstration of artistic skill with distinct social significance. Printmaking was closely tied to the rise of capitalism, enabling the mass production and dissemination of images. Yet, the skills involved were still highly valued, and the image of Mortier, a cartographer, surrounded by the tools of his trade, highlights the important connection between craft, knowledge, and commerce in the 18th century. By focusing on the materials and making of this artwork, we gain insight into the values it embodies, challenging any simplistic separation of “fine art” from the world of craft and labor.