August Pettenkofen, Maler 1883

This is a portrait of August Pettenkofen, Maler, by Franz von Lenbach, and it’s painted in oils on canvas. Oil paint, as you may know, involves grinding pigment with linseed oil, allowing for rich color and smooth blending. The canvas itself is a product of industrial weaving – threads interlaced in a grid, then primed to create a receptive surface for the paint. Lenbach’s skilled application of oil paint, built up in layers, gives the portrait depth and a lifelike quality. Notice how the highlights catch the light on Pettenkofen’s face and the subtle gradations of tone that define his features. This wasn't just about capturing a likeness; it was about celebrating Pettenkofen’s status, achieved through artistic labor. The very act of painting with oil on canvas speaks to a tradition of fine art, distinct from the more workaday processes of craft. Yet, in the end, it's all about materials, making, and social context, isn’t it? It asks us to reflect on the labor involved in creating both art and status.