Portret Johann Friedrich Christoph Graeffe 1769 - 1849

Heinrich Jan Penningh produced this print of Johann Friedrich Christoph Graeffe sometime in the late 18th century. The image presents us with not just a likeness, but a carefully constructed representation of social standing and intellectual position. Made in Germany, the print reflects the cultural importance of the academic and religious elite. Graeffe is depicted within a framed oval, an instantly recognizable way to signify respect and dignity. Below the portrait, a formal inscription in German, details Graeffe’s titles: Doctor of Philosophy, Theology, and Pastor. The image operates as a public statement, reinforcing Graeffe's status within the community of Gottingen. Penningh's print thus functions as a kind of social propaganda, solidifying Graeffe's position within the existing social hierarchy. To fully understand the print's significance, we need to delve deeper into the social and institutional context of 18th-century Germany. Historical archives, university records, and theological publications would shed light on the social dynamics of the time.