Portret van Laurens Jansz. Coster 17th century

This small portrait of Laurens Jansz. Coster, now in the Rijksmuseum, was made anonymously using a woodcutting technique. The artist carved an image into a block of wood, likely using specialized knives and gouges, then applied ink to the raised surface, and pressed paper against it to transfer the image. The stark contrast between black ink and white paper defines the portrait, giving it a bold, graphic quality. The fine lines and details suggest a skilled hand, capable of manipulating the wood to achieve a likeness. As a multiple, this little print speaks to the democratizing potential of printmaking, allowing images and information to circulate more widely than unique works of art. But let's not forget the labor involved; from the careful preparation of the woodblock, to the precise carving, inking, and printing. It is a reminder that every image is the result of human effort, skill, and ingenuity.