Dwarsfluit spelende jongeman 1736 - 1792

This mezzotint of a flute-playing young man was made by Johann Simon Negges in the 18th century, using a copper plate. Mezzotint is an intaglio printmaking process, which relies on texture to hold ink on the plate, producing rich tones and subtle gradations of light and shadow. The process begins with roughening the entire plate with a tool called a rocker. This creates countless tiny burrs that hold ink. The artist then smooths areas of the plate to varying degrees, creating lighter tones. This print relies on laborious, repetitive work, and requires a deep understanding of tonal values. Negges’s choice of mezzotint is significant. It suggests a deliberate engagement with craft traditions, elevating printmaking beyond mere reproduction. The result is an artwork that draws attention to the skill and labor involved in its creation, demonstrating that meticulous processes are integral to artistic expression.