Portret van Samuel Maresius 1653 - 1676

This print of Samuel Maresius was made in 1653 by Theodor Matham, using the technique of engraving. This process involves meticulously cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper against the surface to transfer the image. Look closely, and you can see how the material qualities of the metal plate determined the image’s appearance. The sharp lines give a crisp, precise quality, well-suited to capturing the sitter’s likeness and the texture of his clothing. The skilled labor involved in engraving was considerable; it demanded hours of focused work to achieve such detail. Prints like this one played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas in an era before photography. They were a form of mass production, albeit one dependent on highly specialized craft. By appreciating the labor-intensive process of engraving, we can see this portrait not just as a representation of an individual, but also as a product of specific social and economic conditions. It bridges the gap between fine art and skilled craft, revealing the rich cultural significance embedded in the making.