Portret van kardinaal Niccolò Fortiguerra 1755 - 1805

Editor: This is an engraving titled "Portret van kardinaal Niccolò Fortiguerra" by Gaetano Vascellini, created sometime between 1755 and 1805. It strikes me as very formal and classical. What's your read on it? Curator: Oh, it certainly has that poised formality, doesn’t it? It’s interesting how the stark lines of the engraving, coupled with the subject’s serious gaze, evoke a sense of power and authority, but with a certain introspective vulnerability, almost. Have you ever felt the weight of history pressing down on you just by looking at someone's face? This print captures that perfectly for me. Editor: Introspective vulnerability? That's not quite what I got. The symbols of the cross and cardinal attire made me see authority first. Is it the details in the face that bring you to that conclusion? Curator: Precisely! It's in the subtle lines around his eyes, perhaps, and the slight downturn of his lips. Makes you wonder what inner turmoil, doubts, or reflections simmered beneath the surface of that prominent position. These portraits, for me, are more than just depictions. They're ghosts whispering stories. It feels almost like getting to rummage through the attic of the past, wouldn't you agree? Editor: I think I'm beginning to see what you mean about the subtleties. Considering how meticulously detailed engravings were, you’d have to consciously decide to include those elements, right? Curator: Absolutely. There’s intention, reflection, and a quiet story waiting to be unfolded, not just in what’s boldly displayed, but what’s artfully hidden. You begin to look deeper, and that’s where the fun really starts! Editor: This makes me think about portraits completely differently. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure. Always lovely to peel back the layers together!