Portret van Maria de' Medici zittend op troon 1639

Cornelis van Dalen I created this print of Maria de' Medici sometime in the 17th century. The image was achieved through engraving, a skilled technique that involves meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. The success of an engraving depends on the engraver's control and precision, using tools to create fine lines and textures that capture the subject’s likeness, and to suggest volume and depth. Notice how van Dalen uses the density and direction of lines to define the folds of Maria's dress and the opulent drapery behind her. This effect is achieved through the labor-intensive process of manually incising each line. Prints like this one played a vital role in disseminating images and ideas across Europe. While Maria de’ Medici herself enjoyed the wealth of royal patronage, the print that bears her image could be circulated for a relatively modest price, spreading her influence far and wide. Thinking about this image, it is important to consider the labor, politics, and consumption, and the amount of work involved in its production process.