Portret van Hendrik VIII, koning van Engeland en Ierland 1748 - 1750

This is Jacob Houbraken’s portrait of Henry VIII, King of England and Ireland, made with engraving. The composition is dominated by the oval frame encircling Henry's likeness, lending a sense of formal containment. Notice the intricate details, from the dense hatching that models the king's face and opulent garments, to the ornate sculptural elements at the base, suggesting a deep engagement with texture and materiality. Consider how Houbraken uses the graphic language of engraving to convey not just a physical likeness but also a sense of power and authority. The semiotic system at play here presents Henry as a figure of strength and regality, employing established visual codes to reinforce his status. The choice of engraving itself aligns with the historical context, referencing the reproduction and dissemination of images during that period. The detailed craftsmanship invites us to question the nature of representation and the construction of identity. The portrait is not merely a record but a carefully structured statement, revealing the intricate interplay between artistic skill, historical context, and cultural messaging.