Medaillon met het portret van Pompeius de Grote 1789 - 1809

Reinier Vinkeles made this print of Pompey the Great with etching and engraving techniques. Although undated, it reflects a fascination with classical antiquity common in the Netherlands during the late 18th century. The print depicts a sculpted bust of Pompey within a medallion, set against a backdrop of classical ruins and foliage. This idealised representation of Pompey, a celebrated Roman general and statesman, speaks to the cultural values of the time. The Dutch Republic, then in decline, looked to the Roman Republic for models of civic virtue and military prowess. It's no coincidence that the print resides in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, an institution established to showcase national history and cultural achievements. Examining prints like these within the context of 18th-century Dutch society offers insights into how historical figures were used to shape contemporary identities and political aspirations. We can look at old museum records or conduct a comparative study of other prints from the period. By doing so, we can better appreciate the public role of art and the politics of imagery.