Zelfportret van Wallerant Vaillant met een kapje 1658 - 1677

Wallerant Vaillant created this self-portrait using the mezzotint technique. The first impression is one of chiaroscuro, a dramatic contrast between light and dark that sculpts the artist’s face and clothing from the black background. Vaillant's choice of mezzotint is particularly interesting. This printmaking method, which involves roughening the plate to create tonal depth, aligns well with the Baroque era's interest in texture and emotional intensity. The soft gradations of tone achievable through mezzotint are critical to the artwork's semiotic function. The artist uses tonal modulations, and he guides our perception and interpretation of his persona. The folds of his robe and the gentle curve of his hand are described through light. The textural richness achieved through the mezzotint also challenges the traditional function of portraiture. It also invites a deeper questioning of identity and representation.