Portret van Michael Ignaz Schmidt 1783

This engraving pictures Michael Ignaz Schmidt, and was created by Johann Ernst Mansfeld, around 1768. During this era, the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and individualism coexisted with strict social hierarchies. Schmidt, a Catholic priest and historian, is framed within this context. The portrait, encircled by a wreath, evokes the classical tradition, symbolizing honor and achievement. Yet, this portrayal of Schmidt isn't just a neutral likeness. He appears as a figure of authority, reinforcing the Church's role in shaping historical narratives. In the engraving, consider the objects placed around Schmidt's portrait: books, coins, and a stone tablet with an angel. What do these symbols communicate about the values of the time? How does the image, crafted by Mansfeld, invite us to reflect on the narratives we inherit and the power dynamics embedded within historical representation?