Portret van Jacopo Sannazero c. 1597 - 1599

Theodor de Bry's "Portret van Jacopo Sannazaro" is an engraving that captures its subject within a meticulously designed frame. The composition is dominated by the contrast between the detailed portrait and the decorative border that surrounds it. De Bry uses a formal language that elevates Sannazaro. The laurel wreath and classical lettering situate him within a tradition of poets and philosophers. Note how the symmetry of the border is disrupted by the inclusion of owls, symbols of wisdom, yet their positioning feels almost ornamental. This tension creates a sense of unease, hinting at a destabilization of established categories. The engraving's sharp lines and contrasting textures invite us to consider how meaning is constructed through visual signs. The portrait is not merely a representation but a carefully crafted statement about identity and cultural values.