Portret van Herri met de Bles 1847 - 1909

Edgar Alfred Baes created this intimate portrait of Herri met de Bles using etching, a printmaking technique known for its fine lines and detailed textures. The monochromatic palette emphasizes the formal qualities of line and shading, creating a somber and contemplative mood. Baes skillfully employs hatching and cross-hatching to model the face and clothing, giving depth and volume to the figure. Notice the intricate detail in the beard and hair, achieved through the precise control of the etching needle. The artist subtly contrasts the smooth areas of the face with the textured fabric of the coat, drawing attention to the materiality of the print itself. This portrait, with its emphasis on the tactile quality of etched lines, invites us to consider how the medium shapes our perception of the subject. It is a testament to the artist's technical skill and his ability to convey character and presence through purely formal means.