Portret van Johann Georg Zimmermann 1752 - 1795

This is Christian Gottlieb Geyser’s portrait of Johann Georg Zimmermann, an engraving. The print is part of a broader tradition of portraiture in eighteenth-century Europe, an era marked by the rise of the individual and the flourishing of Enlightenment ideals. Made during an era of significant social change, portraits played a crucial role in shaping public perception and reinforcing social hierarchies. In countries such as Germany, where this print was made, class distinctions were sharply defined and jealously guarded. Zimmermann is presented with certain visual codes, such as his powdered wig and ruffled cravat, which signal his status and sophistication to the viewer. These details not only reflect the aesthetic preferences of the time, but also underscore the sitter’s position within the social order. Understanding such artwork requires us to look beyond the surface and consider the social and institutional contexts in which it was created. Through archival research and careful analysis, we can uncover the complex interplay between art, power, and society in the past.