Portret van Cornelis Jansenius, bisschop van Yperen 1620 - 1666

Philip Fruytiers created this print, depicting Cornelis Jansenius, Bishop of Ypres. It was made using the intaglio process, where an image is incised into a metal plate, inking the recesses and using a press to transfer the image onto paper. The process itself is labor intensive; each line is a deliberate act, demanding precision and control. The texture of the print arises directly from the artist's hand, guiding the tool across the copperplate. The dense network of lines creates a rich tonal range, from the deep blacks of Jansenius's robes to the delicate shading of his face. Notice how the engraved lines capture the bishop's solemn expression, as well as the ornate details of the surrounding allegorical figures. This meticulous method reflects a pre-industrial approach, where craftsmanship and skill were valued. Each print becomes a testament to the labor involved, a physical record of the artist's dedication. This contrasts sharply with modern digital printing, inviting us to contemplate the changing value of skilled work in an age of mass production.