Portret van Karl August von Hardenberg 1823

This is Johann Friedrich Bolt's 1823 engraving of Karl August von Hardenberg, a prominent Prussian statesman. Made in Gotha, Germany, the print reflects the visual codes of power and status prevalent in early 19th-century Europe. Hardenberg, with his formal attire and decorations, embodies the aristocratic elite, serving as a visual representation of the hierarchical social structure. The print also served to solidify Hardenberg's image and legacy within the political landscape of the time. Engravings like these were often commissioned by the state or wealthy individuals to disseminate particular images and ideologies, contributing to the construction of public figures. Understanding the social conditions and institutional histories of this period helps us to interpret the print not just as a portrait but as a cultural artifact. By consulting period documents, letters, and institutional records, we can uncover the social and political forces at play.