Portret van J.B. baron van den Heuvel 1787

This portrait of J.B. Baron van den Heuvel was made in 1787 by François Joseph Pfeiffer, using etching and engraving. These printmaking techniques involve working an image into a metal plate, inking the plate, and then transferring the image to paper under high pressure. The fine lines and subtle gradations of tone are achieved through meticulous labor. Look closely, and you'll notice the incredible control required to create such detail. This painstaking work speaks volumes about the value placed on portraiture at the time, and printmaking had social significance, enabling images to be reproduced and disseminated widely, contributing to the construction of social status. What's really fascinating here is how Pfeiffer has merged artistry with craft. The social status of portraiture is elevated through skilled practices, reminding us that the making of art is always a form of work.