Portret van Aegidius Wild 1673 - 1721

Curator: Here we have "Portret van Aegidius Wild," dating roughly from 1673 to 1721. It's a print, specifically an engraving, on metal. Quite detailed, wouldn't you say? Editor: Absolutely. Immediately, the dense lettering encircling the figure creates a strong visual frame and adds to the overall somber, almost severe mood. You can almost feel the weight of history pressing down. Curator: That inscription is important. It denotes Wild's status and accomplishments – his titles, positions, age. Notice how the engraver uses line weight to emphasize certain words, drawing attention to his virtues. The lettering becomes another layer of iconographic detail alongside Wild's somber robes. Editor: While the Baroque period embraced ornamentation, the lines here, however fine, feel restrained, almost economical. Perhaps speaks to the pragmatism embedded within the context of production and also religious discipline that might be associated with the figure of Wild, as well. Curator: Precisely. The book he holds symbolizes his knowledge and authority, also subtly indicating divine knowledge of faith and virtue. His gaze, directed straight at us, is meant to convey piety and seriousness, the emblems of a respected minister. Editor: And the craft involved, look at the detail of this rendering. How metal as a reproductive technology allowed dissemination to communities beyond, which is quite interesting when considering what exactly these engravings circulated to achieve during their time and in their immediate geography. Curator: An engraving is never just an engraving, isn’t it? It carries the weight of social standing, aspirations, and memory of a specific community. Editor: It does. Looking closely has made me see it a bit differently - perhaps it captures the spirit of its time with both its materiality and how these very lines made it. Curator: Indeed, a confluence of image, status, craft and the man himself!