Portret van Matthias Gottfried Purmann 1691

This is Samuel Blesendorf's 1691 engraving, "Portret van Matthias Gottfried Purmann." The portrait depicts Purmann, a surgeon, at the age of 42, living in Breslau. In the 17th century, the status of a surgeon was on the rise. No longer considered mere tradesmen, surgeons were increasingly recognized for their knowledge and skill. This portrait serves as a statement of Purmann’s professional standing, framing him within a tradition of learned men and scientific inquiry. The elaborate framing and inscription reflects the cultural values and social hierarchies of the time. This image isn't just a record; it's a carefully constructed presentation of identity, meant to communicate Purmann’s place in the world. It invites us to consider how individuals seek to craft and control their own image. How do these historical modes of presentation compare with how we present ourselves today?