Portret van Carolus Pantekoek 1786

This print of Carolus Pantekoek was made by Mathias de Sallieth, likely in the late eighteenth century. It’s an engraving, meaning that the image was incised into a metal plate, probably copper. Consider how that material has influenced the image. Copper accepts very fine lines, allowing for subtle gradations of tone. Look closely and you'll notice the incredible detail of the face, the wig, and the fabrics. The printmaker’s skill is on full display here, requiring careful labor and specialized tools. Prints like this one were part of a burgeoning media landscape, and were relatively inexpensive to produce and distribute. They helped spread ideas, as well as the likenesses of prominent individuals like Pantekoek. So, while the process might seem laborious to us now, it was a key part of a new, more democratic visual culture. In the end, understanding the material and the making helps us to appreciate the print's original social significance.