Hippolyte Dominique Berteaux, historieschilder 1893

This is "Hippolyte Dominique Berteaux, historieschilder," a plaquette made by Louis Eugêne Mouchon. The material is key here: this work is made from metal, likely bronze or a similar alloy, using a process of casting and chasing – that is, detailed handwork to refine the surface after it comes out of the mold. Look closely, and you can see the effects of this labor. The sharp lines of the portrait, the subtle gradations of the figure below, all point to the hand of a skilled artisan. These objects often functioned as a form of currency among artists and those who commissioned work from them. So, it’s not just a representation, but also a material embodiment of social relations within the art world of its time. It represents a world of specialized labor, but also a very direct connection between artist, patron, and audience. Considering the material and the making helps us appreciate the nuances of artistic exchange and the value placed on skilled handcraft in Mouchon's era.