Ernst, graf von Mansfeld c. 17th century

Editor: This is Wolfgang Kilian's portrait of Ernst, Graf von Mansfeld. I'm struck by how meticulously the armor and lace collar are rendered. What can you tell me about Kilian's approach to depicting wealth and power through material representation here? Curator: Kilian's engraving offers a glimpse into 17th-century power structures. Mansfeld's armor, that elaborate collar, even the inscription, speak volumes about status achieved through military labor. Consider the economics of production here: who commissioned this print, and how would it have circulated to reinforce social hierarchies? Editor: So it's not just about commemorating Mansfeld, but also about reinforcing a system? I hadn't thought about the circulation of the print itself as part of that. Curator: Exactly. The very act of creating and disseminating this image contributed to the consumption and perpetuation of aristocratic power. Editor: Fascinating. It really changes how I see this portrait.