Portret van Albert Kijper 1650 - 1665

Jonas Suyderhoef created this portrait of Albert Kijper, probably sometime in the mid-17th century, using engraving techniques. Kijper, a philosopher and medical doctor, is presented here as a figure of intellectual authority, a professor at Leiden University. Engravings like this one played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of status and identity. The details of Kijper's attire, his neatly styled hair, and the composed expression on his face all contribute to an image of scholarly respectability. These visual cues helped to reinforce the social hierarchy of the time, emphasizing the importance of education and professional achievement. But beyond its function as a status symbol, the portrait offers an intimate glimpse into the life and times of a man who dedicated himself to the pursuit of knowledge. What did Kijper feel about being an important part of the academia? It reminds us of the individuals whose labor and intellect have shaped our world.