Portret van Maria van Modena 1673 - 1726

This is Gerard Valck’s portrait of Maria van Modena, likely made with engraving and etching techniques. The artwork gains its impact from the sharp contrast between light and shadow, which is achieved by cutting lines into a metal plate, and then using acid to further etch the design. Valck's expertise in manipulating the material is evident in the fine details of Maria's hair and the delicate rendering of her features. This process demands technical skills in metalworking and printmaking. The resulting print, produced in multiples, would have been more affordable than a painting. This accessibility reflects the growing commercialization of art in the 17th and 18th centuries, where printmaking played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas to a wider audience. The work involved in producing this type of print also speaks to the social context of labor and consumption. Understanding the materials, making, and the context is key to appreciating the full meaning of the artwork.