Portret van August Artaria 1847 - 1932

William Unger’s etching portrays August Artaria, capturing the likeness of a man of his time through the sharp contrast of light and shadow. The subject is a gentleman in formal attire, and the bow tie emerges as a focal point—a symbol of bourgeois identity and respectability. But the bow tie transcends mere fashion; it is an emblem of social rituals, seen in portraits across centuries, from the stern-faced merchants of the Dutch Golden Age to the dapper figures in Impressionist cafes. It speaks of a human need to adhere to social conventions. This simple knot carries a weighty cultural significance, reflecting the values and aspirations of its wearers. As we reflect on Artaria’s image, we recognize that this seemingly innocuous detail—a bow tie—is a testament to the cyclical nature of symbols and the enduring human desire to connect with others. It’s a silent, almost subconscious expression of self within the grand theater of society.