Portret van Carl Vollrath Neidhard 1776 - 1824

This portrait of Carl Vollrath Neidhard was made by Johann Christian Ernst Müller, using etching and possibly engraving, techniques that allow for detailed line work. The image is small, printed on paper, which gives it an intimate quality. Etching involves coating a metal plate with a waxy, acid-resistant substance, drawing an image into the wax, and then immersing the plate in acid. The acid bites into the metal where the wax has been removed, creating incised lines that hold ink. The printmaker then applies ink to the plate, wipes away the excess, and presses the plate against paper. In this particular portrait, the use of hatching and cross-hatching creates depth and shadow, giving Neidhard's face a sense of volume. The lines also define the texture of his clothing and hair. As a multiple, the etching democratizes the image, allowing for wider circulation than a unique painting would, but it also bears the mark of the artisan's hand through the labor-intensive process. By understanding the techniques involved in the creation of this print, we can gain a greater appreciation for the skill and artistry of the printmaker and a deeper understanding of the social context in which it was produced.