Portret van Marcus von Luttich 1649

Editor: This engraving, “Portret van Marcus von Luttich,” by David Mannasser, was made in 1649. I find it rather imposing; the sharp lines of the engraving and the subject’s stern expression create a strong sense of authority. What kind of stories do you think this portrait tries to convey? Curator: Indeed. Observe how the subject, Marcus von Luttich, is framed by an oval cartouche adorned with sharp, almost tooth-like projections, a bold architectural statement common in Baroque portraiture, which certainly reinforces that sense of power. Consider how this bold image functioned as an emblem of authority. Notice, also, the inscribed Latin phrases that surround him. What do you make of their inclusion? Editor: It’s like a title, listing his name and rank: "Colonel of the Cavalry...". The bottom phrase "Majesty… Quiet..." feels like a motto, adding depth. Is that a common practice in similar portraits of the time? Curator: Precisely! The use of Latin adds a layer of classical virtue, invoking the visual language of the Roman Empire. In this context, we might ask how the “majesty” and "quiet" are being connected. Can this emblem function in multiple, even contradictory ways, simultaneously expressing control *and* a longing for peace? Editor: That's a fascinating point. The portrait becomes more complex, it's not simply a declaration of power, but hints at something deeper. I hadn’t considered that potential tension. Curator: And that tension is exactly what makes this type of symbolic portraiture so engaging, offering us a glimpse into the complex psychological and social landscape of the period. This isn't just an image of a man; it's a carefully constructed representation of power, virtue, and perhaps, a quiet longing.