Reproductie van een portret van René-François Régnier before 1882

This printed portrait of René-François Régnier, of unknown date, showcases the photomechanical reproduction techniques of its time. Printed on paper, the process involves transferring an image onto a printing plate, likely through a photographic process, and then using ink to create multiple copies. The texture of the paper, its weight, and the quality of the ink all contribute to the overall appearance and feel of the print. The making of such a reproduction reflects the rise of mass media and the increasing accessibility of images to a broader public. This was achieved through labor and industrial processes. The original photograph would have involved a photographer, a studio, and specialized knowledge. The reproduction further involved printers, plate makers, and a distribution network. Examining the materials and processes used in its creation allows us to appreciate the social and cultural context in which it was made, and how the boundaries of fine art and industrial production can become blurred.