Portret van Philipp, Landgraf Hessen-Kassel c. 1665 - 1694

Elias van Lennep made this portrait of Philipp, Landgraf Hessen-Kassel as an engraving. In the 17th and 18th centuries, portraits of rulers were powerful statements of dynastic power. But they also offered a glimpse into the negotiation of political authority. The future Landgraf is dressed in armour, holding a baton, and standing before a landscape. These are all conventional signifiers of power and legitimate rule. Note, however, the soft, almost feminine features, the flowing hair, and the elaborate lace collar. If we look to conduct books from the period we see a concern about the ways displays of power had to be tempered by sophistication and courtly grace. Looking at the history of art institutions we find the art academy playing a crucial role in codifying just such norms of representation. To further understand this work we might look at period costume manuals, heraldry, and other visual representations of the Landgraf.