Portret van de arts Abraham Cyprianus 1675 - 1745

Juriaen Pool created this print of Abraham Cyprianus, a doctor, anatomist, and surgeon, placing him within an oval frame. Portraits such as these reflect the societal structures of the Dutch Golden Age, where civic identity was closely tied to professional status and wealth. Cyprianus, as a medical professional, held a position of respect and influence, which is clearly conveyed through his composed demeanor and formal attire. Note how his lace collar and elaborate wig are not merely aesthetic choices but signifiers of his place within the social hierarchy. The inscription emphasizes Cyprianus's academic and professional titles, reinforcing his authority and expertise in the medical field. Pool’s decision to depict Cyprianus in this way speaks to the values of the time, where knowledge, reason, and social standing were celebrated and immortalized through portraiture. It’s fascinating to consider how such representations not only documented individuals but also shaped the collective understanding of success and identity in the Dutch Republic.