Portret van Wichmann, Baron von Klingenberg 1747

This is a portrait of Wichmann, Baron von Klingenberg, made with etching and engraving by Johann Martin Bernigeroth in the 18th century. These printmaking techniques are indirect, meaning that the artist doesn't directly draw the image onto the paper. Instead, lines are incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and used to transfer the image. Look closely, and you can see how the density of the lines creates different tones, from the Baron's face to his elaborate armor. The process requires great skill and control, but also allows for a certain level of reproduction. Etchings and engravings like this were often used to circulate images of important people and events, contributing to the formation of public opinion. In this way, printmaking became deeply tied to social issues of labor and politics, particularly in the context of disseminating information and constructing identities. Though it may seem like a world away from our digital age, the act of circulating images and information still lies at the very center of social and political life.