Portret van Ali Pasja 1811 - 1871

This is Pierre Pelée’s undated ‘Portret van Ali Pasja’, created using etching and engraving. The portrait itself, framed by a decorative border, shows Ali Pasja in meticulous detail. Pelée has employed fine, closely-spaced lines to create areas of shadow and volume, giving the image a remarkable sense of depth. Notice how the white paper is just as crucial, as a ground from which the image emerges through the varying densities of etched lines. The structure of the engraving is based on repetition. The ornate border pattern surrounds a representational portrait, and the artist’s ability to balance texture and form reflects a deep understanding of semiotic structure. This piece is not just a depiction; it’s a composition where every element signifies something, contributing to the overall meaning. The interplay between realistic and stylized elements reflects the cultural codes of the time, engaging the viewer in a complex visual dialogue.