Portret van John Fisher 1549 - 1577

This portrait of John Fisher was made by an anonymous artist using the technique of engraving. Notice how the intricate network of lines creates a sense of depth and texture. This wasn't drawn directly onto paper, but rather incised into a metal plate. The artist would have used a tool called a burin to carve these lines, a laborious process that demanded both precision and planning. Once the design was complete, the plate would be inked and pressed onto paper, transferring the image. Engraving was a key technology for disseminating information and imagery, and portrait prints like these played a vital role in shaping public perception. The very act of multiplication allowed for the image to circulate widely, contributing to the subject's fame. Though relatively small in scale, this print carries significant weight as a testament to the power of reproduction and its impact on society. It makes you think about the labor involved, and the social role that it played.