Der Kupferstecher Johannes Kaspar Eissenhardt 

Wilhelm Steinhausen’s portrait of Johannes Kaspar Eissenhardt is rendered with graphite on paper, a medium allowing for subtle gradations and fine detail. The artist's technique is evident in the delicate layering of lines, which build up the form of Eissenhardt's head and beard. This method echoes the meticulous, skilled labor of Eissenhardt himself, who was an engraver. Copper engraving is a highly specialized craft, requiring years of training to master the precise cutting of lines into metal. Think about how the engraver uses sharp tools to create imagery. In turn, the artist Steinhausen uses the soft medium of graphite to capture the likeness of a fellow craftsman. This intertwining of artistic processes reflects the deep connection between artist and subject. By focusing on the skilled labor involved in both drawing and engraving, we can appreciate how this portrait transcends the traditional boundaries of fine art, highlighting the value of craft and the dignity of work.