Portret van Heinrich Krochmann 1749

This is a portrait of Heinrich Krochmann, made by Johann Wilhelm Windter. Krochmann is positioned at a window which is our access to an understanding of his identity as a member of the German elite. During the 18th century, portraiture served as a powerful tool for constructing and communicating social status. Krochmann’s gaze and posture exude confidence. He is also wearing an expensive wig. This engraving not only captures his likeness but also conveys his membership in a particular class. What might be invisible to the viewer is the complicated relationship between portraiture and power. While Krochmann is the focus, the artist is equally important in this dynamic, as his skill in portraying Krochmann’s wealth cements Krochmann’s legacy as a man of importance.