Portret van Matthias Schenk 1648 - 1663

Johann Pfann made this portrait of Matthias Schenk around 1670, using engraving. This meticulous process involves incising lines directly into a metal plate, which then holds ink to be transferred to paper. The technique lends itself to a remarkable degree of detail, evident in the textures of Schenk's clothing and hair. The crisp lines forming the lettering indicate this was a print, allowing multiple impressions to be made and distributed. It is easy to forget that the proliferation of images has relied on skilled labor. Consider the time and expertise required to execute this engraving. The level of craft speaks to the value placed on disseminating Schenk’s image, likely reflecting his status as a philosopher and physician. The inscription around the oval portrait, along with the Latin text below, further emphasizes the sitter's intellectual and moral qualities. Engravings like this remind us that even seemingly simple images involve material processes, social contexts, and highly skilled makers.