Penning met het portret van Frederik IV en de namen van Deense koningen 1685 - 1720

This undated print presents us with an intricate circular design, meticulously engraved, that serves as both portrait and historical record. The stark contrast of black lines on a pale ground emphasizes the circular composition, drawing the eye into its complex arrangement. The central profile of Frederik IV, encircled by his name, acts as the focal point, while concentric rings of text and numerals chart the lineage of Danish kings. The dense typography, segmented into radial compartments, creates a structured yet dynamic visual rhythm. This circular format isn't merely decorative; it challenges linear perceptions of history, suggesting a cyclical or interconnected understanding of time and power. The print destabilizes conventional portraiture, transforming it into a complex system of signs. The rigid structure of names and dates functions as a semiotic framework, inviting us to decode the historical and cultural values embedded within. The circular design, with its repeating patterns, prompts us to consider history as a continuous, evolving narrative.