Portret van Caspar Wadel 1672

Johann Friedrich Leonard created this portrait of Caspar Wadel using etching, a printmaking technique, sometime in the 17th century. The materiality of this artwork, made with simple lines, influences the way the subject appears, immortalizing him in print on paper. Etching involves coating a metal plate with wax, drawing through the wax to expose the metal, and then immersing the plate in acid. The acid bites into the exposed metal, creating lines that hold ink. The plate is then inked, wiped clean, and pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Leonard skillfully manipulated the etching process to create a range of tones and textures. The precise lines capture the details of Wadel's face and clothing, while the subtle shading adds depth and volume. The amount of labor involved in etching, from preparing the plate to printing the final image, reflects a significant investment of time and skill. By appreciating the materials, making, and context, we gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and artistic practices of the 17th century.