Dimensions: height 115 mm, width 66 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
Elias Nessenthaler created this portrait of Anton Itter in 1688 using etching. As a professor and rector, Itter embodies the intellectual and religious milieu of the late 17th century. During this period, portraits served not only as representations but also as affirmations of social standing. The Latin inscriptions surrounding Itter's image underscore his scholarly achievements, reflecting the humanist values of the era. Yet, in its careful depiction of Itter, the artwork also hints at the complexities of identity formation during this time. How did individuals navigate the intersections of faith, learning, and social expectation? Nessenthaler's etching invites us to consider the negotiation between public persona and private self, as Itter's composed expression may conceal more nuanced dimensions of his identity and experiences. In the tension between visibility and concealment, we find a mirror reflecting broader societal dynamics.
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