Portret van Hieronymus Fabricius c. 1648 - 1663

This engraving, depicting Hieronymus Fabricius, was made by Johann Pfann in the late 17th century. Its primary material is the paper onto which the image was etched using metal plates. Look closely, and you’ll notice the incredible detail achieved through the labor-intensive process of engraving. The sharp, precise lines create a detailed portrait, capturing textures from the sitter's ornate clothing to the ruff around his neck. Each mark required skilled handwork, demonstrating the engraver’s mastery. This print was likely made as a means of circulating Fabricius's image, reinforcing his status and intellect. The skilled labor of printmaking allowed for the mass production of images. It is a reflection of early capitalist modes, where art and information could be disseminated more widely than ever before. The value lies not only in Pfann's skill, but in the social context of its production and consumption. It challenges our typical perceptions of art as unique, since the logic here is one of reproducibility.