Portret van François-René de Chateaubriand 1780 - 1832

This is an engraving of François-René de Chateaubriand, made by Johann Daniel Laurenz the second, sometime between 1770 and 1832. The image has a textural intricacy because of the nature of engraving. The image is created by carving lines into a metal plate, applying ink to these lines, and then pressing paper against the plate to transfer the ink. Engraving is an indirect process, requiring the artist to work with a burin to incise lines into a hard surface. This demands planning and technical skill. The close, fine lines capture the details of Chateaubriand's features, as well as the soft textures of his hair and clothing. The engraver's skill is evident in the subtle gradations of tone, achieved through varying the density and depth of the lines. In its time, the technique was a means of mass production, allowing images of important people to be widely circulated, contributing to their fame and influence. Understanding the materials and processes behind this print helps us appreciate the artistry and labor involved.