F. G. Lerche 1849 - 1853

This portrait of F. G. Lerche was made with ink on paper by an anonymous artist. The process of making the portrait with ink is quite direct. Each stroke counts, determining light, shadow, and texture. Notice how the repeated parallel lines build up volume in the sitter's hair and beard. The artist uses hatching to indicate the contours of Lerche's face and clothing, suggesting the weight and drape of the fabric. The use of ink allows for a high degree of detail, capturing the nuances of Lerche's features and expression. Consider the social context: portraits like these were often commissioned by middle-class individuals to affirm their status. The medium is also important. Was this a quick, inexpensive likeness, or something more precious? This kind of print allowed for the relatively inexpensive reproduction of images, making art more accessible to a wider audience. So, as you look at this portrait, think about the materials, the process, and the social context in which it was made. It enriches our understanding of this work as both a fine art object, and a product of labor.