Portret van Willem II, graaf van Holland, rooms-koning 1620

Adriaen Matham created this portrait of Willem II, Count of Holland, using etching, sometime in the 17th century. The process of etching involves drawing with a sharp needle through a waxy ground applied to a metal plate, which is then exposed to acid. The acid bites into the metal where the ground has been removed, creating lines that hold ink. The plate is then printed onto paper. Notice the fine, precise lines Matham used to depict Willem’s armor, the textures of his garments, and the details of his face. The etched lines create a sense of depth and volume, bringing Willem II to life on the page. It is clear that Matham was a master of his craft, using his technical skill to capture the likeness and status of his sitter. The print also speaks to a wider culture of production and consumption, where images like these played an important role in shaping public perception.