Portret van Willem IV, graaf van Holland 1650

Cornelis Visscher created this print of Willem IV, Count of Holland in the mid-17th century, and it’s now held at the Rijksmuseum. Visscher was a master of engraving and etching, techniques that involve meticulously incising lines into a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper. Look closely, and you can see the incredible detail he achieved. The hatching defines the contours of Willem’s armor, even the feathery plume on his helmet. This wasn’t just a display of technical skill. Printmaking in this period was crucial for disseminating images and ideas. Portraits like this helped to construct and circulate the image of powerful figures, reinforcing their authority. The choice of printmaking – a relatively accessible medium – meant that Willem’s image could reach a wider audience than a unique painting would. It’s a fascinating intersection of artistry, craft, and social power.