Monument met 21 portretten 1803

This print, "Monument met 21 portretten," was made by James Parker around the late 18th century using engraving, a process involving carving lines into a metal plate to hold ink. Consider how the linear nature of engraving lends itself to portraiture, capturing the likeness of twenty-one figures with precision. This technique, while capable of great detail, demands a disciplined hand, reflecting the engraver's skill. The arrangement of portraits around a commemorative text speaks to the social and political context of the time. The presence of battle scenes in the background, combined with the commemorative aspect, hints at a society deeply engaged with its history and leadership. Parker's print bridges the gap between craft and fine art, reminding us of the labor and context embedded within historical artifacts.