Portret van Martin Luther 1779 - 1836

Johann Friedrich Bolt created this portrait of Martin Luther sometime between the late 18th and early 19th centuries, immortalizing the iconic figure through the medium of etching. Luther, a towering figure of the 16th century, is often seen as a religious revolutionary, challenging established norms. This portrait carries the weight of the social and religious transformations he initiated, yet it also invites a closer look at the power dynamics inherent in representation. Consider how Bolt, living centuries after Luther, interprets and conveys his legacy. What aspects of Luther's persona are emphasized, and what might be left unsaid? Portraits like these played a crucial role in shaping historical narratives and the construction of individual identities. They invite us to reflect on how we perceive and remember influential figures. This image is a powerful reminder of how identity is not just about the individual, but about the historical and cultural forces that shape our understanding.