Portret van Johannes van der Meer de Jonge 1757

This portrait of Johannes van der Meer the Younger was made with graphite and watercolor, likely in the early 18th century. The artist employed a technique called grisaille, giving the image a sculptural, almost photorealistic quality despite being rendered with delicate washes of gray. This wasn't just about mimicking appearances; it reflected a culture steeped in the artisanal skill of imitation. Drawing, like many crafts, was often taught through apprenticeship, honing the hand and eye to reproduce nature or other artworks. This portrait, with its emphasis on line and value, shows a meticulous application of learned skill, demonstrating the importance of training and practice. Ultimately, this work invites us to consider the value we place on both the subject and the skill of the artist, challenging traditional notions of artistic genius and acknowledging the deep knowledge embedded in making.