Portret van filosoof en humanist Giovan Paolo Parisio 18th century

This is ‘Portrait of philosopher and humanist Giovan Paolo Parisio’ by Carmine Pignatari. It's an engraving, created by carefully incising lines into a metal plate. The fineness of these lines is extraordinary, made possible by the burin, a specialized tool held in the hand. This method of production directly influences the image's aesthetic. The stark contrast between light and shadow, the textures of the fabrics and the details of the face, are all achieved by varying the density and direction of these engraved lines. It's a labor-intensive process, demanding precision and control. The engraving technique itself carries social significance. It was a crucial method for disseminating knowledge and portraits, making it accessible to a broader audience than painted portraits. The detailed labor is typical for printed images, and was at the heart of the production of knowledge through the medium of books. The text is included for those who could read it, and the portrait for those who couldn't. It offers the status of Giovan Paolo Parisio to the common people. By appreciating the materials and processes involved, we can see how this image extends beyond mere representation. It's a tangible artifact shaped by skill, labor, and the broader currents of society.