Portret van François Antoine Christophe Gérard c. 1829 - 1840

This is Ferdinand Bahmann's portrait of François Antoine Christophe Gérard, a print made in the 19th century. It’s created through the intaglio process – a technique involving engraving an image into a metal plate, applying ink, and then pressing paper onto it to transfer the image. Look closely, and you’ll notice the precision of the engraved lines, especially in the intricate details of Gérard’s military uniform. The weight of the paper, the texture of the ink, and the crispness of the impression all contribute to the portrait's aesthetic. Intaglio printing, while not as labor-intensive as some other forms of craft, still requires a skilled hand and careful attention to detail. It's a process that sits at the intersection of art and industry, and the consumption of these images allowed for a wider distribution of portraits, thus democratizing a likeness, previously reserved for the wealthy who could afford painted portraits. By considering the materials, the making process, and the social context in which this print was produced, we can gain a richer understanding of its meaning and significance.