Portret van Heinrich Christian von Senckenberg 1739 - 1804

This small portrait of Heinrich Christian von Senckenberg was engraved by Johann Andreas Benjamin Nothnagel, probably in Germany in the late 18th century. It captures the likeness of a man who funded a hospital, or 'nosocomii', as the inscription tells us in Latin. Engravings like this one served a vital function at the time, circulating images of prominent people, and reinforcing social hierarchies. The oval frame and classical lettering give the image an air of timelessness and authority. This was a period when Frankfurt was a Free Imperial City, a hub of commerce and intellectual life, and portraits like this played a role in solidifying local identities and celebrating civic benefactors. Historical resources, such as city archives and genealogical records, can reveal more about Senckenberg's life, his social standing, and the nature of his philanthropic activities. By researching the context in which this portrait was made, we can better understand the social values and institutional frameworks of the time.