Portret van Christoph Daurer 1665 - 1686

This engraving portrays Christoph Daurer, a prominent figure in Hamburg's society, and was likely made shortly after his death in 1683. It offers a window into the world of the 17th century, a period marked by rigid social hierarchies and the rise of a powerful merchant class. Daurer's identity as a lawyer and diplomat is clearly signaled through his formal attire. His elaborate wig and lace collar weren't just fashion statements, they were symbols of status and belonging, and reflected the societal emphasis on outward appearances. But beyond this individual depiction, it's fascinating to consider how portraits like these shaped and reinforced societal norms. They served as powerful reminders of social roles, where men were typically positioned in the public sphere while women were relegated to the domestic one. This print offers an invitation to reflect on the complexities of identity and representation in the historical context.