Portret van Maria Gertraude Küstner 1699 - 1709

Johann Christoph Boecklin made this portrait of Maria Gertraude Küstner in 1699, using engraving on copper. The image is achieved by cutting lines into the surface of the metal, which then holds ink. The act of engraving demands precision and control, a level of mastery highly valued at the time. Consider how the very act of making this print—a process involving skilled labor, specialized tools, and a deep understanding of materials—imbues the portrait with social and cultural meaning. It is not just a depiction of Maria Gertraude Küstner; it's a testament to the engraver's artistry and the value placed on craft in the late 17th century. The choice of copper as a medium, and the intricate process of engraving, elevate the artwork beyond mere representation, making it a symbol of skill, status, and cultural refinement. So, let's appreciate this print not just for what it shows, but for the labor and materials that brought it into being, blurring the lines between fine art and craft.