Bustes van Seianus en een onbekende man 1636 - 1647

Theodor Matham created this print of Sejanus and an unknown man, using a burin to engrave lines into a copper plate. The controlled nature of engraving allows for the precise depiction of the two busts. Notice the stark contrast achieved through the fine, deliberate lines, creating shadows that give depth to the figures. The texture of the hair and the folds of the drapery are meticulously rendered, showing the artist's mastery of the burin. Engraving requires careful labor, each line contributing to the final image. Prints like these were often made for distribution, enabling wider audiences to view classical sculptures and portraits, a kind of early photographic reproduction. Matham’s work sits between the world of craft production and the burgeoning print market, making art accessible in ways previously unimaginable. The labor-intensive process of engraving emphasizes the value placed on skill and precision.