Portret van chirurg P. Asallini 1783 - 1840

Luigi Rados created this print of surgeon P. Assalini using etching and engraving techniques. These processes involve cutting lines into a metal plate, applying ink, and then using a press to transfer the image onto paper. Look closely, and you’ll notice the crisp lines and fine details achieved through the meticulous work of the engraver's tools. The varying depths and widths of the lines create a sense of volume and texture, giving the portrait a lifelike quality, with the neat lettering adding to the overall formal aesthetic. The social context of this print is significant; portrait engravings like this were often commissioned by the sitter or their family, to commemorate their achievements and status. Consider the labor involved in producing such a detailed image; from the initial drawing to the final print, skilled artisans were essential to the process. By appreciating the materials and the hand-crafted process, we gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural values embedded in this historical print.