Portret van Joost van den Vondel 1660 - 1665

This is Philips Koninck’s portrait of Joost van den Vondel, made with graphite on paper. It's a traditional approach, but even with something as commonplace as drawing, we can consider the means of production. Here, we see how the artist uses the graphite to model light and shadow on Vondel’s face, giving him a sense of character. The laid paper creates texture and a sense of depth. As Koninck applies pressure, the graphite catches on the raised parts of the paper. It is also quite a quick sketch, meant for further development into a more elaborate and saleable artwork. Consider the relationship between the relative ease of producing this drawing, and the social status of portraiture at the time. Then, as now, the art market was a complex system of labor, commerce, and artistic expression. Examining the materials and making of this artwork provides a richer understanding of its significance.