Portret van Niclaus Tscharner 1712 - 1777

This is David Herrliberger's portrait of Niclaus Tscharner, made using etching, a printmaking process notable for its reliance on acid. First, a metal plate would have been coated with a waxy, acid-resistant material. The artist then draws through this coating with a sharp needle, exposing the metal. When the plate is submerged in acid, the drawn lines are etched into the metal, creating grooves. Ink is then applied to the plate, filling these grooves, and the surface is wiped clean. Finally, paper is pressed onto the plate, transferring the ink and creating the image. Considered through this lens, Herrliberger’s work is as much about craft as fine art. The success of the image depended entirely on the skill of the engraver, and their intimate knowledge of the materials. In this artwork, the sharp lines and fine details that define the portrait are a testament to the engraver’s expertise. The intricate detailing is a reminder of the labour involved in the production of printed images at this time.