Portret van Henry Blackwood 1786

This engraving of Henry Blackwood was made by Claude Mellan sometime in the 17th century. Mellan was working during a time of significant social and religious upheaval in Europe. The print provides a window into the world of the elite, depicting Blackwood, a royal doctor and professor. Mellan’s choice to portray Blackwood, a man of Scottish origin practicing medicine in Paris, speaks to the intersectionality of identity during this period. We see this as his identity is tied to nationality, profession, and social status. The inscription around the oval frame emphasizes Blackwood’s lineage and titles, underscoring the importance of social standing. The detailed rendering of Blackwood’s features, from his neatly trimmed beard to his composed expression, conveys a sense of dignity and intellect. The portrait operates within the conventions of formal portraiture while offering a glimpse into the personal identity of a man who navigated the complex social landscape of 17th-century Europe. It is a study in the construction of identity and the ways in which individuals sought to define themselves within a hierarchical society.