Karl von Rothkirch-Panthen, Bohemian-Austrian politician 1828

This portrait of Karl von Rothkirch-Panthen, the Bohemian-Austrian politician, was created by Josef Kriehuber in 1828. Kriehuber was a renowned lithographer, famous for his portraits of Viennese society figures. This image encapsulates the identity and status of its subject. It's not merely a likeness but also a statement of power and belonging during the early 19th century. Von Rothkirch-Panthen’s military attire is important; dress was, and remains, a crucial indicator of social standing. His confident gaze and the meticulous detail in the rendering of his uniform subtly communicate his authority and position within the Austro-Hungarian Empire. How do we engage with such a portrayal today? Perhaps it serves as a reminder of the visual strategies used to construct and maintain historical power structures. While seemingly straightforward, this portrait invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity and representation.