Portret van Anne Jules hertog van Noailles 1771

This is Louis Jacques Cathelin's portrait of Anne Jules, Duke of Noailles, a print made using engraving techniques. The image is created by carefully cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper, revealing the intricate details of the Duke's likeness. The engraving captures the texture of his elaborate wig, the fabric of his coat, and the ornamentation of his aristocratic attire. It's a testament to the skill involved, a labor-intensive process requiring precision and expertise. Consider the social context: such a portrait was a means of disseminating the image of power. Engravings like these played a crucial role in circulating images and ideas, contributing to a culture of visual communication and reinforcing social hierarchies. By valuing the craft embedded within this print, we gain insight into the values of the artist. This challenges the hierarchy that often separates art from craft.