A detailed seventeenth-century engraving by Cornelis Visscher, depicting the Dutch writing master Lievens van Coppenol with his quill.

This engraving by Cornelis Visscher depicts Lievens 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 presents Van Coppenol in a seated position, his posture relaxed yet dignified. He holds a quill, a direct reference to his profession, while his gaze meets the viewer with a calm, steady expression. The artist employs a sophisticated system of cross-hatching and varied line weights to model the form of the sitter and the texture of his clothing. The light source, coming from the left, creates subtle shadows that define the contours of his face and the folds of his garment.

Below the portrait, the print includes an inscription in Dutch, which adds a layer of historical context to the work. Such inscriptions were common in portrait prints of the period, often providing biographical details or laudatory verses about the subject. The technical execution of the engraving demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with the Dutch Golden Age. Visscher was known for his ability to translate the nuances of light and texture into the medium of print, a skill clearly visible in the rendering of the sitter's features and the soft fabric of his attire. This work remains a fine example of seventeenth-century portraiture, documenting both the individual and the professional identity of a man who was well-known in his time. The composition is balanced, with the figure occupying the majority of the frame, allowing the viewer to focus on the character and detail of the subject. The print is a study in controlled technique, where every line serves to construct the volume and presence of the writing master.