Portræt af biskop Henrik Bornemann 1699

This is a portrait of Bishop Henrik Bornemann by Johan Friedlein, created using engraving techniques. Notice how the composition is structured around a play of circular and rectangular forms. The Bishop’s face is framed by an oval border, which is then set upon a rectangular pedestal. This geometric interplay creates a sense of formal stability, yet the intricacies of the engraving introduce a dynamic tension. The use of line is particularly striking. Friedlein employs a dense network of fine lines to sculpt the Bishop's features, rendering the texture of his beard and the intricate folds of his ruff with remarkable precision. The lines create a rich tonal range, from the deep shadows that define the contours of his face to the subtle gradations that suggest the play of light across the surface. The portrait embodies the cultural codes and intellectual concerns of its time. The formal qualities of the print – its structure, composition, and use of line – invite us to consider how it communicates ideas about power, representation, and the role of the church.