Portret van de advocaat Johan van den Sande (kopie?) 1638 - 1660

This portrait of Johan van den Sande, likely made in the early 17th century by an anonymous artist, is an engraving - a print made by incising an image into a metal plate. Look closely, and you can see how the network of fine lines creates the illusion of light and shadow. This was a laborious process; the engraver would have used a tool called a burin to carefully cut each line into the metal. The depth and density of these lines determine the tones in the final print. Engraving was a highly skilled craft, demanding precision and patience. The resulting prints, like this portrait, could be reproduced and distributed widely, making them powerful tools for disseminating images and ideas. In a sense, this is a very early form of mass media. The amount of hand-work and expertise involved elevated the status of the sitter, and testified to his importance. Consider how the material and process of engraving contribute to the portrait's overall effect, bridging the gap between craft and fine art.