Portret van Cornelis Henricus à Roy 1833 - 1853

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this portrait of Cornelis Henricus à Roy using lithography, a printing technique that democratized image-making in the 19th century. Lithography involves drawing on a stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink only sticks to the drawn areas. The printmaker then transfers the image to paper. This process allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction, making images like this one accessible to a wider audience than traditional engravings. Here, the soft, velvety textures achieved through lithography lend a sense of realism to à Roy’s likeness. The subtle gradations of tone capture the details of his face and clothing, emphasizing his status as a member of the Dutch Society for the Promotion of Industry. The rise of lithography reflects broader social and economic changes, linking artistic production to industrialization and mass consumption. By embracing this technology, Last participates in a shift towards more democratic forms of representation, challenging the traditional boundaries between art, craft, and industry.