Savage Soldier Holding a Sword 1764

Matthias Pfenninger produced this print of a ‘Savage Soldier Holding a Sword’ sometime around the late 18th century. But what does this image of a ‘savage’ tell us about European society at that time? During the 1700s, Europe was expanding its colonial reach, encountering cultures vastly different from its own. This image reflects the era's fascination with the 'exotic' and 'primitive'. Notice how the figure's clothing and weaponry are presented, likely based on European projections rather than accurate depictions. The image evokes complex questions about power, knowledge, and representation during the rise of colonialism. It perpetuated stereotypes while also revealing European anxieties about the unfamiliar. To understand images like these, it's essential to explore historical texts, travelogues, and colonial archives. Understanding the social and institutional context of an artwork gives a deeper understanding of its meanings and impact.