Ruiterportret van Alessandro Farnese, hertog van Parma 1591 - 1632

This print of Alessandro Farnese, Duke of Parma, was made by Hessel Gerritsz using an engraving technique. The process involves using a tool called a burin to carve lines directly into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The material and process are crucial here: engraving allowed for detailed, reproducible images, which were essential for disseminating political figures' likenesses. The sharp, precise lines lend a sense of authority and control, reflecting Farnese’s military command. Consider the labor involved; each line meticulously etched by hand. This artisan skill contrasts sharply with the Duke's aristocratic status. Engravings like these weren't just art, they were tools of power. They circulated widely, shaping public perception and reinforcing social hierarchies. Appreciating the craft of engraving helps us understand how art and labor intertwine with politics and class.