Portret van Johann Jacob Bodmer 1759 - 1815

Heinrich Pfenninger created this portrait of Johann Jacob Bodmer with etching around the late 18th to early 19th century. During this period, portraiture served not only as a record of likeness but also as a marker of social standing and intellectual prowess. In the etching, Bodmer is presented in profile, a pose often reserved for nobility or figures of importance, emphasizing his intellectual stature. His powdered wig and formal attire further underscore his status within the educated elite. This image invites us to consider the dynamics of representation and identity construction in the 18th century. It reflects an era deeply invested in Enlightenment ideals and the celebration of individual achievement. Pfenninger’s portrait immortalizes Bodmer, but also invites reflection on the societal values and power structures that shaped his identity.