Portret van Dirk V, graaf van Holland 1650

This is Cornelis Visscher's portrait of Dirk V, Count of Holland, made around the mid-17th century. It’s rendered entirely in ink on paper using the etching technique, which allows for incredibly fine detail and tonal range. Etching involves coating a metal plate with a waxy ground, then drawing through the ground with a needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. This painstaking process is repeated to deepen the lines, creating a plate that can be inked and printed. The sharp, precise lines and subtle shading capture the textures of Dirk V's clothing, hair, and facial features. The labor-intensive nature of this intaglio print underscores the value placed on detailed representation and the skilled craftsmanship required to produce such a refined image. Visscher's choice of etching as a medium speaks to a broader culture of printmaking and its role in disseminating images and ideas during this period. This portrait is not just an image of a nobleman, it is also a testament to the power of the printmaking industry.