Portrait of François Le Bloy 1760 - 1792

Nicolas de Launay created this portrait of François Le Bloy, likely in France, using engraving. The image is made up of thousands of tiny lines incised into a copper plate, then inked and pressed onto paper. Consider the labor involved, and the immense skill it takes to create such detail. Look closely at the rendering of Le Bloy’s face, the textures of his garments, and the ornate architectural frame. All were achieved through the manipulation of line. The marks have an inherent graphic quality, distinct from painting or drawing. Engraving was a key technology for disseminating images in the 18th century. It allowed for the mass production of portraits, landscapes, and scenes from daily life. In a very real sense, it was a medium of democratization, making images accessible to a wider public. So, when you look at this print, don’t just see a portrait. See the process, the labor, and the social context that made it possible. Recognize the engraver as a skilled maker, whose work bridged the gap between art and industry.