Portret van Johann Peter Miller 1765

Johann Martin Bernigeroth created this print of Johann Peter Miller sometime in the 18th century. This formal portrait gives us insight into the status and intellectual life of its subject during the Enlightenment. Miller, with his powdered wig and velvet coat, embodies the era's emphasis on reason and learning. The books in the background and the volume he holds suggest a man of letters, deeply engaged with the world of ideas. Bernigeroth, as the artist, navigates the complexities of representation within a hierarchical society. His skill in engraving allows him to disseminate images of prominent figures, shaping public perception and contributing to the construction of identity. Ultimately, this print captures a moment in time, reflecting both the individual aspirations of its sitter and the broader cultural values of the Enlightenment. It's a reminder of how images, even those from centuries past, continue to shape our understanding of history, identity, and the ongoing dialogue between art and society.