Portret van keizer Leopold I 1655 - 1700

Jan van Somer made this portrait of Emperor Leopold I as an engraving, a printmaking technique that was essential for disseminating images in early modern Europe. The process begins with a metal plate, usually copper, into which the artist carves lines using a tool called a burin. The plate is then inked, and the surface wiped clean, leaving ink only in the engraved lines. When paper is pressed against the plate, the image transfers, resulting in a print with a distinctive, slightly raised texture. Notice how van Somer uses the precision of the engraving to capture the intricate details of Leopold's face and attire, from the laurel wreath to the ermine stole. Engraving demands immense skill and patience, reflecting a tradition of craftsmanship. Yet, it also represents a mode of mass production, making images accessible to a broader audience. This artwork sits at the intersection of artistry, labor, and the burgeoning culture of consumption, challenging our notions of fine art by revealing its ties to the world of craft and industry.