Portret van Frederik IV van Baden c. 1663 - 1695

Christiaan Hagen created this print, "Portret van Frederik IV van Baden," using etching techniques during a period marked by significant European conflicts. Consider the weight of representation in Hagen's depiction of Frederik IV. Here, Frederik is presented in armor, a visual declaration of power and military prowess. The detailed battle scene in the background isn’t just scenery; it anchors Frederik within a very specific theater of power and authority. In this context, the armor is more than protection; it is a symbol of identity and status. Hagen's technical skill emphasizes the intricate details of the armor, reflecting the period's values of craftsmanship and the importance of social hierarchy. How does seeing Frederik in this way shape our perception of him and the world he inhabited?