Reproductie van een litho van een portret van Ignatius Josephus van Regemorter door Eeckhout before 1877

Joseph Maes created this reproduction of a lithograph of Ignatius Josephus van Regemorter, attributed to Eeckhout. Measuring a modest 106 by 89 millimetres, the artwork draws us in with its tonal gradations and clear, uncluttered composition. The lithographic reproduction employs an astute use of contrast to render van Regemorter's likeness. Note the meticulous detail in the face, achieved by careful gradations from light to dark. This chiaroscuro effect pulls the figure out from the mid-grey background and creates a sense of volume. This play of light and shadow introduces dynamism and depth to the portrait, which would otherwise be a flat depiction. In its formal construction, the work adheres to the conventions of portraiture. The figure is set against a neutral background, which isolates him and underscores his individuality. The artist has harnessed the lithographic medium to challenge fixed meanings and engage with the representation of identity.