Portret van Jacobus I after 1755

Michel Aubert created this portrait of Jacobus I using etching and engraving techniques sometime in the first half of the 18th century. These printmaking methods involve meticulously incising lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The fine lines and cross-hatching create a range of tones and textures, capturing the details of Jacobus I's regal attire and dignified expression. The choice of etching and engraving speaks to a broader social context of reproduction and dissemination of images during this period. These techniques allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive production of multiple copies, making portraits accessible to a wider audience beyond the elite. The labor-intensive process, requiring skill and precision, highlights the value placed on craftsmanship in the creation of reproducible images. This engraving straddles the line between fine art and craft, demonstrating how technical skill could serve both artistic expression and commercial purposes.