Portret van Frans II, koning van Frankrijk 1642 - 1678

This print of King Francis II of France was made by Nicolas de Larmessin in the 17th century. It is made with an engraving, an intaglio printmaking technique that requires immense skill. Here, the artist would have used a tool called a burin to manually carve lines into a copper plate. The depth and density of the lines determine the tones and textures we see in the final print. This process is incredibly labor intensive, demanding precision and control. Larmessin has masterfully captured the regal bearing of the King, paying meticulous attention to the intricate details of his attire. Consider the time and effort required to produce such a work. Engravings like these played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas in the pre-photographic era. They were luxury goods, a testament to both the artist's skill and the patron's wealth. Appreciating the artistry behind this engraving helps us understand the social and economic context in which it was created, blurring the lines between craft, art, and commerce.