Portret van Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz 1745

This portrait of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz was made by Etienne Ficquet in 1745, using engraving on paper. The image is constructed from a series of thin lines incised into a metal plate, then inked and printed. Look closely, and you’ll see how Ficquet varied the density of the lines to create a sense of light and shadow, volume and texture. The technique demands precision, as the slightest slip of the hand would be visible in the final print. Yet, this wasn't just about technical skill. Engraving had become a key part of the burgeoning print industry, allowing images to be reproduced and disseminated widely. In this case, a portrait of a famous philosopher could reach a broad audience, enhancing his reputation and legacy. The labor of the engraver, therefore, was directly tied to the circulation of ideas and the construction of fame. Considering the materials and processes used to create this portrait invites us to think about the relationship between art, labor, and the broader cultural landscape.