Portret van Michael Knebel 1708 - 1733

This engraving of Michael Knebel was created by Martin Bernigeroth in the early 18th century. Framed within an oval border, a symbolic portal, Knebel gazes out, his presence emphasized by the heavy curtain. The curtain, a motif laden with significance, evokes a sense of unveiling, of revelation. From ancient Roman art, where curtains symbolized power and imperial presence, to Renaissance paintings where they revealed sacred scenes, the curtain acts as a threshold between worlds. Consider its use in Baroque art to heighten drama and emotion. The curtain conceals and reveals, engaging viewers in a psychological dance. What is hidden, what is shown? Here, it invites contemplation on Knebel's identity and the societal role he fulfills. This resurfaces throughout history, each time subtly shifting in meaning yet retaining its primal power to evoke curiosity and emotional engagement.