Portret van Johann Philipp Stoll 1670 - 1713

Pieter Schenk made this print of Johann Philipp Stoll using an engraving technique. This process involves cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing the plate onto paper. The stark contrast between light and shadow is achieved through the meticulous labor of carving fine lines, resulting in a high level of detail. The artist's skill is evident in capturing the texture of Stoll's elaborate wig and the intricate patterns of his clothing. Engraving was a key method for disseminating images, akin to mass production before photography. The medium itself speaks to the growing commercialization of art, and the increasing demand for portraits among the rising merchant class. By understanding the labor-intensive process and the social context in which it was made, we can fully appreciate the work as both a representation of an individual and a reflection of a changing society.