Portret van Johann Gottlob Quandt 1784

This is an engraving of Johann Gottlob Quandt, made by Johann Friedrich Bause. The engraving technique involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Look closely, and you'll notice the image is built up from a dense network of these lines, creating areas of light and shadow. The skill of the engraver lies in their ability to control the depth, width, and direction of these lines to create the illusion of form and texture. Engraving was a labor-intensive process, requiring specialized skills and tools. The resulting prints were often used for reproduction and dissemination of images, contributing to the growth of visual culture and the spread of knowledge. Paying attention to the materials and making of the engraving gives us a deeper appreciation of the work that went into its creation, and challenges the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.