Portret van de predikant Johann Paul Astmann 1699 - 1713

Pieter Schenk created this print, *Portret van de predikant Johann Paul Astmann*, sometime between 1660 and 1711, offering us a glimpse into the world of 17th-century religious figures. Astmann, a minister, is captured with a solemn gaze. His identity as a man of the church is reinforced by his attire; the stark white collar and dark robe speak volumes about the social and religious expectations placed upon him. This image invites us to reflect on the power dynamics inherent in religious authority, and the gendered nature of that authority. Schenk’s print encourages us to consider the emotional weight of religious leadership and its impact on the individual. It prompts us to consider how portraiture can be used to either reinforce traditional narratives or to offer more nuanced representations.