Portret van Christian Matthiae 1673

This is an engraving of Christian Matthiae by Melchior Hafner II. Christian Matthiae Dithmarsus was a Professor of Theology, and the Latin inscription surrounding his portrait reflects his status and role in society. Produced during a time of strict social hierarchies, portraits like these were important tools for constructing and reinforcing social status. The tight framing of his face draws you into his gaze. Note how his stern expression and the precise details of his ruffled collar suggest a man of authority and intellect, conforming to the traditional representations of scholarly men of the era. However, such portraits also reveal the gendered nature of power and knowledge at the time, reflecting an era when academia and positions of authority were largely dominated by men. This piece serves as a reminder of how historical representations can both reflect and perpetuate societal norms, shaping our understanding of identity, knowledge, and power.