Michel Le Tellier conseiller du roi 1605 - 1650

This print of Michel Le Tellier, advisor to the king, was created in the 17th century by Jean Morin. It's made by engraving, where the image is incised into a metal plate, and the ink held in those lines is transferred to paper. The process allows for incredible detail, as you can see in the rendering of Le Tellier’s hair and clothing. Note the octagonal frame, complete with an inscription, adding another layer of complexity to the making. Engraving was not just a reproductive technique. It was a highly skilled craft, requiring years of training. The engraver had to be both technically proficient and artistically sensitive. Moreover, prints like this circulated widely, carrying images and ideas across geographical boundaries. They played a crucial role in shaping visual culture and disseminating knowledge. So, when you look at this image, consider it not just as a portrait, but as the result of a complex interplay between materials, skill, and social context. It challenges the distinction between art and craft, inviting us to appreciate the artistry inherent in the making process itself.