Portret van Christophorus Butkens 1682 - 1730

Jacobus Harrewijn created this portrait of Christophorus Butkens, likely as an engraving, in the late 17th or early 18th century. It presents us with a man of the church, an abbot no less. In his hand, Butkens holds what appears to be a letter or document, perhaps alluding to his authority or role in scholarly pursuits. The portrait is more than a likeness; it's a statement of power and position within the religious hierarchy of its time. The trappings of his office—the robes, the cross, and the seal in the background—speak to a world deeply structured by religious doctrine. Yet, the image also hints at the personal. There's a weight to his gaze, an individuality that resists simple categorization. Consider how images like this one helped to solidify social roles and reinforce the power structures of the time. It's a reminder of how identity, even in the most personal sense, is often shaped by the broader forces of history and society.