Portret van de predikant Cornelis Brinkman 1788

This is a portrait of Cornelis Brinkman by Mathias de Sallieth. The most prominent feature is Brinkman's clerical collar, a symbol deeply rooted in religious authority and devotion. This motif echoes through centuries, from the simple stoles of early Christian priests to the elaborate vestments of medieval clergy. We see its evolution mirrored in countless portraits of religious figures across Europe. What strikes me is how this symbol, meant to signify humility and service, has often been associated with power and hierarchy. Think of the psychological weight it carries, the silent assertion of spiritual leadership. It serves as a potent reminder of the complex interplay between faith, power, and representation, and the cyclical nature of symbols as they resurface through time.