Portret van Johann Michael Hungar 1776

Editor: We’re looking at a print from 1776 entitled "Portret van Johann Michael Hungar," made by Johann Heinrich Lips, currently residing at the Rijksmuseum. The detail in this engraving is quite striking, even though it’s monochrome. There’s something about the subject's expression, a sort of quiet intensity, that I find compelling. What jumps out at you when you see this work? Curator: Well, isn’t he just a delightful enigma? His wig is trying to escape from his head while his stare would burn holes through paper, if it could. What always tickles me about portraits like this is the sense of performativity, wouldn’t you agree? It is almost as if everyone poses to become what they aren't... Neoclassicism sought a return to classical ideals of order and reason. Do you think we see that represented here? Editor: I see what you mean. Perhaps the floral framing is meant to evoke something ‘classic’ or idealized? But it’s also interesting to think about what isn’t shown: the world he occupied, his everyday life... Curator: Precisely! The history they lived, and how they perceived history being *made*! I believe the contrast is exactly what gives this piece its charm, wouldn't you agree? The tension is very attractive in a time of relative composure in the Netherlands, don't you think? Editor: That's a very intriguing way to frame it. I definitely have a new appreciation for what this piece might represent! Thanks! Curator: You're most welcome! Always happy to get lost in time together!