Portret van David Teniers 1818 - 1869

Etienne Wauquier created this portrait of David Teniers using lithography, a printing process that allows for detailed tonal variations. The magic of lithography lies in its reliance on the simple principle that oil and water don't mix. The artist would have drawn directly onto a smooth limestone slab with a greasy crayon, then treated the stone so that ink would only adhere to the drawn areas. The resulting print captures a remarkable likeness, particularly in the soft gradations of the face and fur collar. Lithography emerged in the 19th century as a relatively inexpensive method for mass-producing images. This print, therefore, reflects the democratization of art, making portraiture accessible beyond the wealthy elite. While it lacks the direct touch of a unique drawing or painting, the lithograph carries its own kind of intimacy, born from the artist's hand and the subtle nuances of the printing process. It's a fascinating reminder that art history is also a history of technology, labor, and shifting social values.