Portret van John Dryden 1818 - 1832

Friedrich Wilhelm Bollinger made this portrait of John Dryden using etching and engraving techniques. Look closely, and you will see the remarkable intricacy that Bollinger achieved with these linear methods, and the way he built up tone by layering lines. The softness of the sitter’s voluminous wig, and delicate lace cravat, contrast with the incisive lines that define Dryden’s face. Etching and engraving are printmaking techniques that require great skill and precision, traditions rooted in the history of creative practices alongside that of fine arts. The amount of work involved in the production process, from the initial drawing to the final print, speaks to the value placed on craftsmanship and artistry. By emphasizing the material processes and social context of this portrait, we can better understand its full meaning and appreciate the artistry involved in its creation.