Kong Frederik V og Dronning Louise under salvingshøjtidelighed i Frederiksborg Slotskirke. Illustration til Frederik d. IV's salvingsakt 1726 - 1757

Odvardt Helmoldt de Lode created this illustration of King Frederick V and Queen Louise's coronation ceremony at Frederiksborg Castle Church using engraving, a meticulous intaglio printmaking technique. The process involves incising an image onto a metal plate, typically copper, using a tool called a burin. The character of engraving lends itself to highly detailed and controlled lines, visible in the intricate rendering of the architecture, figures, and even the royal dogs in this scene. The artist's skill is evident in the precision required to capture the solemnity and grandeur of the occasion. Each line cut into the metal plate represents a deliberate mark, contributing to the overall texture and depth of the composition. The choice of engraving as a medium reflects the era's appreciation for craftsmanship and technical skill. Creating such an artwork demanded specialized knowledge and prolonged labor, indicative of the social and economic structures of the time. Appreciating the craft involved invites us to reflect on the value placed on artistry and skill during the 18th century.