Portret van Johann Latomus 1597 - 1599

Here we see Robert Boissard's portrait of Johann Latomus, etched into a copper plate, a medium that allows for detailed replication and dissemination of images. The book, held firmly in Latomus's hand, is more than a mere attribute; it's a symbol of knowledge and authority, deeply rooted in religious and scholarly traditions. Consider how this symbol has evolved. From ancient scrolls to illuminated manuscripts, and now, to this printed volume, the book signifies wisdom passed down through generations. The act of holding a book carries its own weight. Think of the countless depictions of saints and scholars clutching sacred texts, their faces illuminated with divine knowledge. This gesture transcends time, connecting Latomus to a lineage of thinkers and believers. Observe the tension in his grip, the weight of responsibility and intellectual burden. This isn't just a portrait; it's an embodiment of the psychological and emotional investment in the pursuit of knowledge. The book persists as a potent symbol, embodying our collective memory and the enduring human quest for understanding.