Mandsportræt, med sort hue og øreklapper 1743

This miniature portrait was created by David Gardelle, likely in the 1740s, using oil on copper. The choice of copper as a support is interesting. Although less common than canvas, it offered a smooth, rigid surface ideal for fine detail. Think of the skilled labor involved: the mining and smelting of the copper, the hammering into a thin sheet, the careful preparation to receive the paint. Oil paint itself, made from ground pigments and linseed oil, required specialized knowledge. The layering of translucent glazes – visible upon close inspection – was a technique mastered over generations, allowing Gardelle to build up subtle tones and textures, capturing the likeness of his sitter. Consider the social context: a demand for portraiture among a rising merchant class, eager to emulate the aristocracy. The relatively small scale made it more affordable than the standard full-size portrait, which would likely have taken longer to complete. Paying close attention to the materials and processes involved, we can gain a deeper understanding of the artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural values embedded in this seemingly straightforward portrait.