Portret van Alexander Sigismund von Neuburg 1673 - 1693

Curator: This print, residing here at the Rijksmuseum, offers us a glimpse of Alexander Sigismund von Neuburg. Dating between 1673 and 1693, the piece is an engraving by Elias Hainzelmann, working firmly within the baroque portrait tradition. Editor: Good heavens, the hair! It's an absolute triumph of curls—a literal frame for the face, and such confidence! It gives the portrait such an arresting energy, even before you consider the crown floating just above his head, with that rather frightening eagle looking down at it all. Curator: Precisely. Consider how Hainzelmann has arranged the composition—the cascading curls, the emblematic devices framing the central figure...each element serves to reinforce a carefully constructed image of power. The density of the engraving adds to the sense of controlled abundance. Editor: Yes, controlled… I see that. It’s so ordered in many ways: look at those neatly arranged bunches of grapes that frame his head. Yet, despite the order, that eagle looks positively demonic and rather contrasts to the rather peaceful lion sitting beneath. Curator: One should also take note of the inscriptions on the surrounding banners. They give us clues to the context and ambitions of the figure depicted, reflecting his aspirations and dynastic connections. The baroque loved this interweaving of image and text, enriching meaning through layers of visual and textual rhetoric. The motto, rendered on ribbons held in place by that watchful lion, adds depth to our understanding. Editor: You know, seeing it all laid out, it's like a meticulously staged theatrical production! Each item seems to point to something else entirely. A celebration of both the natural world in its finery as well as the symbolic world the aristocrats were determined to cling to. The lion, grapes and eagle… the artist managed to capture it all. Curator: Indeed. It underscores the complexities inherent in baroque portraiture, showcasing not just a likeness, but a whole universe of significance contained within a single, compelling image. Editor: Right you are. Next, shall we examine something that maybe contains… less hair? I need a breather from that vortex of follicles.