Portret van Friedrich Carl von Tettenborn 1810 - 1814

Johann Daniel (II) Laurenz created this portrait of Friedrich Carl von Tettenborn through engraving. Tettenborn, a prominent figure in the Napoleonic Wars, is depicted here at a time when national identity and military prowess were deeply intertwined. The portrait, with its meticulous detail, captures the essence of a man celebrated for his military achievements. Yet, it also subtly speaks to broader themes of power, class, and representation. What does it mean to immortalize a military figure in art? How does the image contribute to the construction of national heroes, and who is included or excluded from this narrative? Consider how the symbols of military honor communicate values of duty, courage, and sacrifice, but also remind us of the costs and consequences of war. This portrait invites us to consider the complex interplay between personal identity, national pride, and historical memory.