Portret van Maria Malibran 1817 - 1844

Jacques Sturm’s “Portrait of Maria Malibran” is a delicate engraving where the use of fine, linear strokes creates a soft yet structured image. The portrait is framed by a simple mount, typical of the period, which accentuates the delicate quality of the engraving itself. The careful hatching and stippling define Malibran’s features, giving depth to her expression. Sturm's technique emphasizes the play of light and shadow, creating a sense of volume and presence. The lines are not just descriptive, they delineate the character, as the composition invites us to decode the cultural values placed on feminine beauty and artistry. The circular framing of the portrait against a shaded background draws your attention to the texture of the engraving, a material sign of the era’s print culture. The artwork functions both as a representation and an object, inviting a viewer to consider the relationship between artistic technique and social representation. The portrait's charm lies in its capacity to evoke a sense of intimacy, while simultaneously reminding us of the constructed nature of portraiture.