Portret van Cajus Wilhad Strömer 1674 - 1695

This engraving by Anthony van Zijlvelt depicts Cajus Wilhadus Strömer, likely created in the late 17th or early 18th century. It gives us a glimpse into the cultural and religious landscape of Northern Europe at the time. Strömer, identified as a pastor in Bremen under the Swedish crown, is presented within an oval frame, set upon a classical plinth. This format, combined with the inscription "UNI SERVIO: UNI SERVOR" ("I serve one, I am a servant of one"), signals his importance within the religious hierarchy. The formal style, typical of the period, underscores the status and authority associated with religious office. Engravings like these served multiple purposes. They functioned as portraits, disseminated widely thanks to the printing press, and also reinforced existing social structures by visually representing figures of authority. To understand this work better, we can consult historical records of the church in Bremen and Swedish administrative archives. This artwork reminds us that art is always embedded in a web of social and institutional relations.