Portret van Gottlieb Volckamer von Kirchensittenbach before 1737

Bernhard Vogel created this portrait of Gottlieb Volckamer von Kirchensittenbach using engraving, a printmaking technique where lines are incised into a metal plate. The plate is then inked, and the ink is transferred to paper under high pressure. Engraving demands precision and control, making it perfect for capturing fine details, especially in the elaborate wigs, clothing, and ornate frame surrounding Volckamer. Look closely, and you'll see how the texture is built up from tiny, deliberate lines. Engraving was highly valued in the 17th and 18th centuries, thanks to its ability to reproduce images widely and accurately, playing a crucial role in disseminating knowledge and cultural trends. But it was also a laborious process, requiring the skills of specialized artisans. The amount of work involved reflects the status of the sitter, connecting the production process to social class and the economics of portraiture. Considering the labor and skill invested in this print reminds us of the artistic value of craft, and the essential role of production techniques in understanding an artwork's meaning.