Portret van Julius van Beyma c. 1623 - 1686

Jonas Suyderhoef created this portrait of Julius van Beyma using engraving, a printmaking technique that demands precision and control. The image is formed by lines incised into a metal plate, likely copper, with a tool called a burin. The depth and density of these lines create the tonal variations we see, from the delicate shading of van Beyma’s face to the rich textures of his fur-lined coat and the crisp pleats of his ruff. Consider the immense labor involved in this process; each line meticulously carved by hand. Engraving was a highly skilled craft, often associated with commercial printmaking, yet Suyderhoef elevates it to an art form. By focusing on the materials and processes of its making, we recognize that this portrait is more than a simple likeness. It stands as a testament to the engraver's artistry and craft.