Portret van Johan Georg van Werdenstein 1579 - 1615

This is a portrait of Johan Georg van Werdenstein by Dominicus Custos, made as an engraving. The image is created by cutting lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. Engraving like this was a highly skilled, laborious process. Each line had to be carefully incised to create tonal variations and fine details, think of the texture of the sitter’s clothing, and the ruff around his neck. The technique allowed for the relatively easy reproduction of images, which fuelled the spread of knowledge, propaganda, and portraiture like this one, across Europe. Consider the amount of work involved in producing this image, not just by the artist, but also in the production of paper, ink, and printing press. This portrait provides insight into the modes of production and consumption of images in the early modern period. By understanding the materials, making, and context of this engraving, we can appreciate its cultural significance and challenge the traditional separation of fine art and craft.