Portret van Geoffroy Macé Camus de Pontcarré 1718 - 1763

Jean Daullé created this portrait of Geoffroy Macé Camus de Pontcarré using engraving, a printmaking technique that relies on the precise, controlled removal of material. Look closely and you'll notice the crisp, clean lines that define the subject's features and clothing. The process begins with a metal plate, usually copper. The engraver uses a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into the plate's surface. These incised lines hold ink, which is then transferred to paper under high pressure, creating a mirror image of the design. The real skill lies in varying the depth and thickness of the lines to create shading and texture, giving the portrait depth and realism. Consider the amount of labor involved in this kind of work, especially in reproducing the fine details of Pontcarré's wig and ermine robes. The printmaking process is often overlooked, but it’s essential to understanding not just the image, but also the social context in which it was created. It sits at the intersection of art, craft, and industry.