Louis de Valois, comte d'Alais c. 17th century

Editor: This is Claude Mellan’s engraving, "Louis de Valois, comte d'Alais." I am really struck by the texture of the line work. What can you tell me about Mellan's process here? Curator: Mellan was renowned for his unique engraving technique. He used a single, continuous line to create tonal variations. Think about the labor involved in meticulously crafting the portrait. How does that affect our understanding of the Count’s social standing, perhaps? Editor: So, the intensive labor reflects his status? It makes you consider the means of production and who had access to it. Curator: Precisely. This print blurs the lines between mere portraiture and a commentary on the very system that enabled such luxury. Editor: I hadn't considered the socio-economic aspect of the labor involved before. Thanks!