Portret van Wilhelmina van Pruisen 1767 - 1791

This is a portrait of Wilhelmina van Pruisen, made by Mathias de Sallieth around 1759. It’s made using a printmaking technique called etching, on paper. Unlike painting or sculpture, printmaking is inherently about reproduction. It makes images accessible to a wider audience. The etching process involves coating a metal plate with a waxy ground, then drawing through the ground with a needle to expose the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. Ink is applied, and the plate is pressed onto paper. The result is a delicate, linear image with a slightly raised texture. In this portrait, the etched lines capture the texture of Wilhelmina's elaborate hairstyle and the intricate details of her dress. But beyond the aesthetic qualities, consider the labor involved: the skilled hand of the artist, the preparation of the plate, the precise application of acid, and the careful printing process. Printmaking democratizes art, but also relies on skilled craftsmanship and the complex social dynamics of labor and distribution. Looking at this print, we are reminded that art is not just about individual genius, but also about the processes, materials, and social contexts that shape its creation and reception.