Portret van Josias hertog van Waldeck 1631 - 1669

This is a portrait of Josias, Duke of Waldeck, made by Matthäus Merian the Younger in the 17th century. It's an engraving, a printmaking process that involves cutting lines into a metal plate, inking the surface, and then using a press to transfer the image to paper. Look closely at the textures and details. See how the engraved lines create shading and form, from the Duke's flowing hair and armor to the elaborate frame surrounding him? The production of prints like this was a skilled and laborious process, involving specialized tools and knowledge of materials. Yet, unlike painting or sculpture, engraving allowed for multiple copies to be made and distributed widely. This points to the rise of a print culture in the 17th century, where images became more accessible to a broader audience. The portrait would have served as a symbol of power, status, and lineage. But it also demonstrates the intersection of art, technology, and commerce in early modern Europe, challenging the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.