Portret van Hendrik Frederik

About this artwork

inscription: ‘Engraved from a Painting by I.E. Liotard according to the Directions of the Author’

Art Historical Context

This engraving, titled *Portret van Hendrik Frederik*, captures the refined portraiture of Swiss artist Jean-Étienne Liotard, created between 1753 and 1757. Measuring 404 by 314 millimeters, the print was produced after an original painting by Liotard himself, as noted in the inscription: “Engraved from a Painting by I.E. Liotard according to the Directions of the Author.” Liotard, celebrated for his precise and naturalistic approach, often worked across media, and this reproductive engraving allowed his portrait to reach a broader audience beyond the original canvas. Engraving held particular importance in the eighteenth century as a bridge between elite painted portraits and wider cultural circulation. By overseeing the process, Liotard ensured the print preserved the subtle details and dignified presence of his sitter. The work reflects the era’s growing interest in accessible art forms that combined technical skill with personal likeness. Visitors can appreciate how this piece highlights both the artist’s versatility and the collaborative nature of printmaking, turning a private portrait into a lasting public record.

About the Artist

Jean-Etienne Liotard · 1692–1789

Comment on works: Portraits