Portret van Taco Roorda c. 1851 - 1883

Johan Hendrik Hoffmeister made this portrait of Taco Roorda using lithography. In lithography, the artist draws on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treats the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawing. This printmaking method allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction. Looking closely, you can see the subtle texture of the lithographic lines that define Roorda’s features and clothing. The process captures the detail of his suit and bowtie, conveying a sense of formality fitting for a professor at the Royal Academy in Delft. Lithography democratized image-making during the 19th century, making portraits and other artworks more accessible. It moved image creation from a unique handcrafted object toward mechanically produced images that were tied to social and economic changes. The lithographic process and its impact on art underscore the role of technology and labor in shaping our visual culture.