Portret van de predikant Herman Witsius 1683

This is Paulus Pontius's engraving of Herman Witsius, made in the Netherlands in 1683. Witsius was a prominent reformed theologian, and this portrait offers insight into the visual codes that reinforced social status in the Dutch Republic. The print, with its Latin inscription, signals Witsius's intellectual standing. Note the classical column, which represents the pillars of society and learning. The book to his right is also a symbol of knowledge and erudition. This image presents Witsius as a figure of authority, both intellectual and spiritual. It would be interesting to explore how Witsius’s own writings might have reflected or challenged the social norms of his time. Understanding this portrait requires knowledge of Dutch social hierarchies, religious history, and the institutional roles of figures like Witsius.