Portret van Henri Leys 1831 - 1890

Jean Baptiste Pierre Michiels made this portrait of Henri Leys using etching, a printmaking technique that relies on the controlled corrosion of metal. Here, we see how the linear quality of the etching process lends itself to the meticulous rendering of Leys's features. The dense network of fine lines creates subtle gradations of tone and texture, capturing the likeness of the subject with remarkable precision. The intensity of labor involved in creating such detailed work speaks to the value placed on craftsmanship and the artistic skill required to master this printmaking technique. What’s interesting about printmaking is its inherent relationship to social context and the modes of production. Unlike a unique painting or sculpture, prints can be editioned and disseminated widely, making art more accessible to a broader audience. This accessibility also ties into the labor involved, and how the economics of printmaking can be very different than that of more singular art forms. Ultimately, understanding the material and the making helps us appreciate the social and cultural significance of this portrait.