Portret van Ramón Perellós y Roccaful 1726

Laurent Cars made this print portrait of Ramón Perellós y Roccaful sometime around 1697 using engraving techniques. The lines you see are etched into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper, a process demanding great skill and precision. Consider how the varying line weights create texture and depth. Notice the fine hatching that models the face and the more assertive strokes defining the clothing. The engraver must consider the reflective qualities of the metal, using tools to create a design that will translate effectively into the monochrome print. Printmaking like this allowed images to be widely distributed, playing a key role in shaping public perceptions and solidifying social hierarchies. It also involved a division of labor, with skilled artisans producing images for a consuming audience. So, next time you see a print, remember the labor and skill involved in its making. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple images have a rich material history.