Portret van Salomon Gessner 1771

This is Johann Friedrich Bause’s portrait of Salomon Gessner. It's a testament to the intricate dance between art and societal roles in the 18th century. Salomon Gessner, a celebrated figure of his time, was more than just a pretty face. As a publisher, he navigated the complexities of intellectual and artistic life amidst the burgeoning Enlightenment. Bause's engraving presents us with Gessner, the man of letters, but also Gessner the man of means. This portrait reveals a society deeply rooted in class distinctions, and the subtle visual cues embedded within this portrait speak volumes. Gessner’s refined attire and composed demeanor reflect his status and privilege, subtly reinforcing the societal hierarchies of the time. It serves as a window into the world of 18th-century Europe, where identity was carefully crafted and meticulously maintained.