Jacobus Frans Eduard, prins van Wales, als kind 1688 - 1713

This is Pieter Schenk’s rendering of *Jacobus Frans Eduard, prins van Wales, als kind*, made using etching. Notice how the composition is structured around the interplay between shadow and light, creating a sense of depth and volume. The texture of the fabric, the soft skin of the figures, and the intricate patterns of the furnishings create a rich sensory experience, even in monochrome. The lines, finely etched, define the forms with precision, from the delicate lace to the grandiose drapery. The artwork functions as a cultural signifier, encoding complex notions of power and legitimacy. By employing a formalist lens, we can understand how Schenk’s technical virtuosity serves to enshrine certain cultural values and perpetuate specific power structures. This etching offers a glimpse into the ways art and philosophy converge to shape our understanding of the world.