Portret van de heer Antoine 1695

This is Bernard Picart's "Portret van de heer Antoine," made in 1695 using etching and engraving. These techniques involve incising lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the image. The material quality of the print—its fine lines and tonal range—depends entirely on the skill of the engraver. Look closely and you can see the extraordinary level of control Picart had over the burin, the tool used to cut the lines. The density of the lines creates shading and volume, bringing Antoine's face and clothing to life. The textures—from the fabric drapes to the globe—are meticulously rendered. Prints like these played a crucial role in disseminating images and knowledge during the early modern period. They were relatively inexpensive to produce, making them accessible to a wider audience than paintings. Picart was part of a growing class of artisans, whose labor fueled an expanding culture of visual information. So, as you consider this image, think about the labor and processes behind it, and how this connects the artwork to broader issues of production, class, and consumption.