Portret van Charles Lebrun en Pierre Mignard 1831 - 1841

This print of Charles Lebrun and Pierre Mignard was created by Vittore Pedretti in the 19th century using engraving techniques. Look closely, and you'll see that this isn't just a straightforward reproduction. Pedretti wasn't only interested in portraying the likenesses of these artists; the engraving itself is the point. The lines, the delicate hatching, and the contrast between light and shadow all speak to the engraver's skill, a craft in its own right. Engraving, like painting, demands rigorous training and technical expertise. Each mark is made with intention, showcasing the engraver’s mastery over the material. By focusing on the engraver's process, this print invites us to appreciate the labor and artistry involved in its creation. It challenges any hierarchy between so-called fine art and the skilled crafts.