The Infanta Donna Isabella, Governante of Flanders 1767

This print of the Infanta Donna Isabella, Governante of Flanders, was created by Johann Sebastian Müller in the 18th century using a technique called mezzotint. This process involves roughening the entire copper plate with a tool called a rocker, then smoothing areas to create lighter tones. The result is an image with rich blacks and subtle gradations of light. The material qualities of mezzotint – the fine texture and the way it holds ink – gives the portrait a velvety appearance. Notice the labor-intensive process required a high level of skill, reflecting the values placed on craftsmanship during this period. Müller's technical expertise allowed for the mass production of detailed images, catering to a growing market for art among the middle class. Considering the print in terms of its making and distribution reveals its place in a wider system of labor, commerce, and consumption. By focusing on these aspects, we can better understand its cultural significance beyond simply being a portrait of a noblewoman.