Jean Louis Hamon c. 19th century

This is a print of Jean Louis Hamon, made by William B. Closson, though the exact date is unknown. The method used here is engraving, a demanding process where an image is incised into a metal plate, which is then inked and pressed onto paper. Look closely, and you'll see the incredible detail achieved. The textures of Hamon’s hair and beard, the fabric of his suit – all rendered through countless tiny lines. This wasn't a quick process. It required immense skill, patience, and control over the burin, the engraving tool. The density of the lines creates the illusion of shadow and depth, giving the portrait a lifelike quality. Engraving, like many printmaking techniques, sits at an interesting intersection of art and industry. It requires the sensibility of an artist, but also the technical precision of a craftsman. And though the image is of a unique individual, the printmaking process means that it could be reproduced many times over. By considering the materials and processes used, we gain a deeper appreciation for the skill involved, and the social context in which this image was produced. It encourages us to look beyond the image itself, and consider the labor, expertise, and means of production that brought it into being.