Portret van Johannes Franciscus Dupont 1843 - 1887

This is a portrait of Johannes Franciscus Dupont, made by Johan Hendrik Hoffmeister using lithography, a printmaking technique, during the 19th century. The image’s appearance is intimately tied to the properties of lithography. This process involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy substance, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. The resulting prints, like this one, often have a soft, textural quality. This labor-intensive process requires a high level of skill and a sensitivity to the materials. Lithography democratized image production, enabling wider circulation of portraits like this one, and fuelling a boom in commercial art. Considering the processes involved in creating this work reminds us that even seemingly straightforward portraits are deeply connected to social and economic factors. By focusing on the materials, making, and historical context, we can appreciate the full depth of its meaning, moving beyond traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.