Tønne Juul, nederste del 1684 - 1685

This print, "Tønne Juul, nederste del," was made by Hubert Schaten, though we don’t have a precise date. What we can say is that it was created using the intaglio process, where an image is incised into a metal plate, inked, and then pressed onto paper. Look closely, and you can see the extraordinary level of detail achieved with this technique, from the dense wig to the various coats of arms. What interests me most is the labor that went into this, a collaboration of sorts between the artist and the engraver. Each line had to be etched with precision, a time-consuming and highly skilled process. It reflects a social context where such craftsmanship was valued. This wasn't just about creating a likeness; it was about status, lineage, and the power of representation. The print, with its textures, weight, and form, speaks to a world where handcraft and artistry were integral to the projection of authority. The result transcends mere reproduction, becoming a testament to both artistic skill, social class, and cultural significance.