Portret van Johann Philipp Fresenius 1749

This print of Johann Philipp Fresenius was made by Andreas Reinhard in 1748, using engraving. It is a process in which the artist carefully cuts lines into a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. The choice of engraving is significant. Unlike painting, which allows for unique expression, engraving was a more reproducible medium, well-suited for distributing images and ideas widely. Consider the precision and skill required to render the details of Fresenius's face and the textures of his garments, as well as the inscriptions, all by hand. This labor-intensive process reflects the value placed on craftsmanship and precision. Engravings like these served a social function, circulating images of prominent figures like Fresenius, a religious figure, throughout society. The print thus acts as a record but also a powerful way of disseminating ideals. By examining the materials and processes of this print, we gain insight into the cultural values and social dynamics of the time. It challenges us to look beyond the image itself and consider the labor, skill, and social context embedded within its creation.