Portret van Pietro Verri

About this artwork

collector's mark: Lugt 2228

Art Historical Context

This engraving by Giuseppe Benaglia presents a formal portrait of Pietro Verri, capturing the Italian philosopher and economist in a dignified pose typical of early nineteenth-century commemorative prints. Created between 1806 and 1830, the work appeared well after Verri’s lifetime, suggesting it served as a tribute to his intellectual legacy during a period when engraved portraits helped circulate images of notable figures across Europe. The medium of engraving allowed for precise line work and fine detail, making it ideal for reproducing likenesses that could be widely distributed through books and collections. Measuring 340 by 247 millimeters, the print’s substantial size indicates it was intended as a standalone piece suitable for framing or inclusion in a distinguished cabinet of prints. Benaglia’s careful technique reflects the enduring importance of graphic media in preserving cultural memory during the transition from Enlightenment ideals to the Romantic era.