Portret van de jurist François Pithou 1685

Pieter van Schuppen made this portrait of François Pithou using the technique of engraving. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to carve lines into a copper plate. Look closely, and you can see the fine web of lines that create tone and shadow. This time-consuming process demands incredible skill, and a deep understanding of both the material and the tools. The precision allows for the clear depiction of Pithou's features and clothing. Each line contributes to the overall image, demonstrating the labor and craftsmanship involved. Engraving was essential for disseminating images and knowledge widely. Prints like these were commodities, bought and sold, and distributed widely. Here, the means of production—a laborious, hand-executed graphic process—speaks to the rise of a new kind of visual culture. So, the next time you look at an engraving, consider the artistry and the labor behind it. It's a testament to the power of the handmade in an increasingly industrialized world.