J. F. Struensee 1772 - 1792

Editor: This is a print from between 1772 and 1792 entitled "J. F. Struensee" by Terkel Kleve. It's an engraving, so the detail is quite incredible. I’m struck by the somewhat severe profile of the subject. How do you interpret this work from a formalist perspective? Curator: Notice the artist’s masterful use of line to create texture and volume. The contrasting densities of hatching and cross-hatching not only define the planes of Struensee's face and clothing but also generate a compelling interplay of light and shadow. Do you observe how the circular frame further focuses our gaze? Editor: Yes, it definitely traps the eye. And the inscription that runs around the portrait, how would you read that formally? Curator: Indeed, it is crucial. The inscription becomes part of the work’s structure, contrasting with the portrait’s softness. The lettering anchors the composition, contributing to a sense of balance and order, aligning with Neoclassical principles. Have you considered the texture of the paper itself? Editor: I hadn't really thought about that! Does its rough quality influence your reading of the print? Curator: Precisely. It introduces an element of irregularity, disrupting the smoothness one might expect. The negative space surrounding the portrait is as important as the image itself. Its emptiness accentuates the density of the engraving, highlighting the figure's presence. Editor: This has made me think about engravings differently, and consider that the composition of a print, and not just the historical meaning, informs our perception of the image. Curator: Absolutely, by carefully examining these intrinsic formal elements, we gain deeper insights into the work's construction and aesthetic impact, leading to a richer experience.