Portret van de kunstverzamelaar Louis Splitgerber 1838

This portrait of the art collector Louis Splitgerber was rendered by Henricus Wilhelmus Couwenberg, using the technique of lithography. Lithography involves drawing on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then applying ink which adheres only to the drawn areas. This printmaking process, which emerged in the late 18th century, allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction of images, making art more accessible to a wider audience. Note how Couwenberg uses subtle gradations of tone, achieved through careful manipulation of the crayon, to create a sense of depth and volume. The texture of the paper also plays a role, subtly influencing the overall appearance of the print. Considering the laborious aspect of the printing, and the skilled handiwork necessary to create the image, this portrait represents a fascinating intersection of artistic skill and industrial production. It blurs the boundaries between fine art and craft, reminding us of the importance of both materials and making in understanding the full meaning of the artwork.