Portret van Anna van Denemarken 1832 - 1850

This is W. Hohneck’s portrait of Anna van Denemarken, an engraving in which tonal contrasts produce a striking visual effect. A series of intricately rendered frills and details within a roundel sharply contrast with the otherwise blank and untouched paper surface. The artist’s formal decisions, and the relation between line, tone and texture, guide our engagement with the image. The choice of the roundel as a framing device concentrates our attention, signaling a departure from conventional portraiture. The subject is captured in an intimate, closely cropped view, encouraging an introspective reading. Hohneck’s skillful use of engraving techniques – note the detailed hatching and cross-hatching – captures Anna's likeness and evokes an atmosphere of refined elegance and delicate texture. Through its formal qualities, the image opens up a space for considering how artistic choices can destabilize established modes of representation, inviting new perspectives on portraiture and identity.