Portret van Antonio Merenda, op 77-jarige leeftijd 1710 - 1784

Frans Pilsen made this portrait of Antonio Merenda at the age of 77. Merenda's image is constructed to convey his status and importance in society. Consider the visual codes present. The formal attire, including the fur-lined robe and the elaborate collar, signifies wealth and authority. Merenda's dignified pose and serious expression further contribute to the image of a respected and influential figure. This work was made in the 18th century, a period marked by rigid social hierarchies and the power of institutions such as the church and the aristocracy. Portraits like this played a crucial role in reinforcing these social structures. They celebrated individual achievement, yes, but also emphasized the importance of maintaining social order. To truly understand the meaning of this portrait, we need to consider its social and institutional context. Archival research and historical texts would give insight into the subject's profession, social standing, and the values of the time, which would then inform our understanding of the public role of art and the politics of imagery in 18th-century society.