Portret van Benedikt Winckler 1687 - 1704

This is Leonhard Heckenauer’s portrait of Benedikt Winckler. Note the sober attire of the sitter, and the understated yet present cane he holds. The cane, you see, isn't merely a support; it's a scepter in disguise. This symbol of authority goes back to ancient times, seen in the hands of kings and gods. The subtle shift from scepter to cane is a fascinating study in the democratization of power. Here, it is no longer just a symbol for royalty, but for learned and influential members of society like Winckler. Consider this transformation—the scepter, once a divine right, is now a symbol of civic stature. It reflects our collective desire to imbue ourselves with importance. The psychological draw of this imagery is potent, as it taps into deep-seated aspirations for control and influence. This portrait, then, is not just of a man, but of the enduring human desire for recognition and status.