Portret van Jacob Dornkrell ab Eberhertz 1687

This is Johann Friedlein’s portrait of Jacob Dornkrell ab Eberhertz, an engraving. Portraits have always been an opportunity for those with power to broadcast their status. Here, the sitter is pictured in his library with shelves full of books visible in the background. This wasn't merely a backdrop. Libraries in 17th-century central Europe were more than just repositories of knowledge. They were symbols of intellectual prowess and social standing. Dornkrell's association with theological works, alluded to by the prominent display of a bible, would have signaled his dedication to religious scholarship. This was a time when religious and political identities were intertwined, therefore representing a conservative position. To truly understand this work, research into period libraries is vital. What were their layouts? Who had access? These are just some of the questions which shed light on the relationship between art, power, and knowledge.