Portret van Baptista Nani 1685 - 1696

Daniël met de Penningen created this portrait of Baptista Nani using engraving, a printmaking technique involving cutting lines into a metal plate. The incised lines hold ink, which is then transferred to paper under high pressure. Look closely, and you’ll notice the remarkable level of detail achieved through this demanding process, especially in the rendering of Nani’s hair and the intricate folds of his garment. Engraving demanded immense skill and time. The artist had to be precise, as any error would be directly etched into the plate. This wasn't just a job, it was a craft, passed down through generations of artisans. The choice of engraving wasn't arbitrary; it speaks to the value placed on skill, precision, and the labor-intensive nature of production. Considering its materiality, we can see it as a testament to the rich history of craftsmanship that predates industrialization, reminding us of the human effort embedded in every line and curve.