Portret van Ewald Christian von Kleist 1759 - 1803

This is a portrait of Ewald Christian von Kleist, made by Christian Gottlieb Geyser using etching. The image is achieved by using acid to cut into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed onto paper. Look closely, and you’ll notice a dense network of tiny, precise lines. These were created bit by bit, with the etcher controlling the depth and thickness of each mark. The result is an image with a very particular feel, quite different than a drawing or painting. This one has a crispness, a quality that speaks to the etcher’s skill, and the relative ease of reproducing images in multiples. Etching was embraced by printmakers due to its convenience, as it allowed for mass production. This print, therefore, isn't just a portrait, but a product of early modern print culture. It’s a reminder that every artwork has a history tied to its materials and means of production, a world far beyond what's depicted.