Allegorie op het 25-jarig bestaan van het Maatschappij tot Nut van 't Algemeen, 1809 1809

Ludwig Gottlieb Portman created this engraving in 1809 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Dutch "Society for Public Welfare". Engraving is an intaglio printmaking technique, where the artist manually carves lines into a metal plate, often copper. Ink is then applied to the plate, filling the engraved lines, and the surface is wiped clean. High pressure forces the paper into the incised lines to pick up the ink, resulting in a detailed image with a distinct, slightly raised texture. The technique demands meticulous skill and control. The engraver's labor is evident in the precise lines and tonal variations, achieved through varying the depth and density of the cuts. This contrasts sharply with the scene depicted: a celebration of societal well-being and abundance. The allegorical figures and cornucopia overflowing with produce present an idealized vision of prosperity, yet the labor-intensive process of engraving itself underscores the real work required to achieve such a state. It's a reminder that even idealized visions are built upon the efforts of skilled hands.