Portretbuste van Friedrich Karl von Württemberg-Winnental 1700

Editor: Here we have Johann Jakob Thurneysen's "Portretbuste van Friedrich Karl von Württemberg-Winnental," an engraving from 1700. The composition feels very much of its time. So layered, but almost oppressively formal. What stands out to you most about this portrait? Curator: The overt display of power and status certainly jumps out. But what interests me is unpacking *how* that power is constructed and for whom. Consider the context: Friedrich Karl was a Duke during a time of immense social stratification. The engraving, with its elaborate symbolism – the lion, the eagle, even the cherubic figures – functions as propaganda. Editor: Propaganda? That's a strong word. Curator: Is it? Think about it. This image was intended for circulation, to project an image of strength, lineage, and divine right. How do you think that image resonated, particularly with those subjected to his rule? Did they have any power over how their representation was perceived? The layers aren’t just compositional, but societal too. Who held the gaze? Editor: I see your point. It’s not just a portrait; it's a statement designed to enforce a hierarchy. Curator: Exactly! Consider the absence of *their* voices and perspectives in how this message of power and legitimacy gets sent to the world, while such images continue to be the norm. How does the proliferation of images of elites throughout history impact societal understandings of identity and value even today? How much progress do you think we have made when those representations prevail in the modern world? Editor: This has made me think about whose stories get told, and more importantly, *how* they’re told. Thanks for the fresh perspective! Curator: My pleasure! Hopefully this gets us to collectively explore alternative narratives and deconstruct traditional power structures to build towards true inclusivity.