Portret van A.F. Hausmann 1808 - 1861

Here is a portrait of A.F. Hausmann, made by Heinrich Lödel, who was active in the first half of the 19th century. During this period, portraiture solidified its role in reflecting and reinforcing the social hierarchies of the time. As we look at Hausmann, who was the Director of the Chamber and Saltworks in Rotenburg, we might consider the ways in which his identity is constructed through the visual language of the artwork. His calm, confident gaze and formal attire speak to his status and authority. Lödel's attention to detail in rendering Hausmann's features creates a sense of individuality, while also conforming to the conventions of portraying men of importance. Think about how the rise of the middle class and the emphasis on individualism impacted portraiture. It is so interesting to notice the shifting dynamics of identity and representation in art during periods of social and political change.