Portret van Marino Grimani, doge van Venetië 1600 - 1604

Dominicus Custos made this portrait of Marino Grimani, Doge of Venice, using engraving – a printmaking technique dating back to the 15th century. The process involves cutting a design into a flat surface, traditionally a copper plate, with a tool called a burin. The incised lines hold ink, and when the plate is pressed against paper, the image is transferred. Notice the fine, precise lines defining Grimani’s features and the intricate details of his garments. Engraving demands meticulous skill and control. The depth and spacing of the lines determine the tonal variations, creating light and shadow. This technique allowed for the mass production of images, playing a crucial role in disseminating information and artistic ideas across Europe. The engraver’s labor, though hidden in the final print, is integral to its aesthetic and cultural value. Custos's work exemplifies the fusion of technical mastery and artistic expression, challenging any rigid separation between craft and fine art.