Portret van Steffan Wolters 1684

Jan Verkolje created this portrait of Steffan Wolters using the meticulous technique of mezzotint. This printmaking method, popular in the 17th century, allowed for rich tonal gradations, achieved by roughening the metal plate and then smoothing areas to create lighter tones. Look closely, and you'll notice the velvety texture of the print, particularly in the rendering of Wolters's voluminous hair and draped clothing. This was no easy task; mezzotint required immense skill and patience. The artist would have used a tool called a rocker to create thousands of tiny dots on the plate, and then carefully burnish away these marks to create the image. Consider the labor involved in such a process, especially in contrast to the subject, Steffan Wolters, who is identified as an "Amator Artium," or art lover. Wolters, a gentleman of leisure, could enjoy the fruits of Verkolje's labor, a symbol of status and refinement achieved through considerable time and effort. By understanding the material process, we can appreciate the social dynamics embedded within this elegant portrait.