Portret van Catharina van Bragança 1685 - 1715

This portrait of Catharina van Bragança was made by Isaac Beckett, likely in the late 17th or early 18th century, using the technique of mezzotint. In this printmaking method, the artist roughens the entire plate with a tool called a rocker, creating countless tiny dots that would print as solid black. The image is then created by selectively burnishing or scraping away the burr to create lighter areas, with smooth areas producing pure white. Look closely, and you'll notice the subtle gradations of tone, achieved by the controlled removal of the mezzotint burr. Mezzotint was prized for its ability to reproduce the textures and tonal range of paintings, making it popular for portraits. However, it was labor-intensive, demanding considerable skill and time. The detailed rendering of Catharina's lace collar and the soft texture of her hair speak to the immense effort involved in creating this print. The technique’s reliance on repetitive hand work reflects a pre-industrial mode of production, making it a fascinating intersection of craft and commerce.