Portret van Ernst Casimir, graaf van Nassau-Dietz 17th century

This is an anonymous portrait of Ernst Casimir, Count of Nassau-Dietz. It is a small engraving. The most striking feature is the elaborate ruff around his neck. This symbol of status speaks volumes. The ruff, born from practical necessity to protect clothing from sweat and oils, quickly evolved into an extravagant display of wealth and power, not dissimilar to the peacock's feathers. Consider how, even today, we adorn ourselves with symbols of success, echoing this deep-seated need to project status. In ancient Rome, togas were a similar signifier of social standing. This human tendency to display status extends beyond mere vanity; it taps into primal instincts of survival, dominance, and attraction. Thus, the Count, encased in his fashionable armor and framed by the stiff ruff, presents himself as a figure of authority, embodying the psychological desire to project strength. As we observe this image, consider how such symbols continue to shape our perceptions and interactions, binding us to the past.