A detailed seventeenth-century engraving by Cornelis Visscher, portraying the Dutch writing master Lieven van Coppenol with technical precision.

This engraving by Cornelis Visscher depicts Lieven van Coppenol, a celebrated Dutch writing master of the seventeenth century. Visscher, a master of the burin, captures the sitter with remarkable precision. The portrait shows Coppenol seated, his posture relaxed yet dignified, holding a quill in his right hand. The composition focuses on the subject's face and hands, which are rendered with fine, controlled lines that define the texture of his skin and the folds of his clothing.

The background remains relatively simple, allowing the viewer to concentrate on the character of the sitter. Visscher employs a variety of hatching techniques to create depth and volume, particularly in the shadows cast by the chair and the drapery of Coppenol's coat. The inclusion of a calligraphic inscription at the base of the print provides context, identifying the subject and the artist while adding a decorative element that complements the formal nature of the portrait.

Cornelis Visscher was known for his technical skill in printmaking, often translating the works of other painters into engravings. In this instance, he demonstrates his ability to convey personality through the medium of line. The portrait reflects the social status of a writing master in the Dutch Republic, a profession that held a degree of prestige during this period. The work is a fine example of seventeenth-century Dutch portraiture, where the emphasis lies on realism and the subtle play of light and shadow. The print serves as a record of a specific individual, preserved through the meticulous craft of the engraver.