Portret van een onbekende man 1890

Auguste Danse created this portrait of an unknown man using etching in 1890. Etching involves covering a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant layer, and then drawing through this layer to expose the metal. The plate is then bathed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines, creating grooves. Ink is applied to these grooves, and the plate is pressed onto paper to create a print. What’s fascinating is how Danse uses the etched line to capture the man’s likeness. The close hatching creates a tonal range and shadows. Note how the density of the lines defines the contours of his face, emphasizing his smile and the texture of his skin. The process of etching is labor-intensive, requiring skill and precision. The resulting prints are often valued for their delicate lines and subtle tonal variations. This elevation of printmaking—traditionally seen as a reproductive medium—to the realm of fine art reflects a broader shift in the art world, challenging the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.