Portret van Hanns Wolff c. 1680 - 1690

This is Benjamin Recknagel's 'Portret van Hanns Wolff,' an engraving created in the late 17th century. The portrait depicts Hanns Wolff, a burgher and coppersmith from Nuremberg. Reflecting the rigid social structures of the time, the portrait not only showcases Wolff's likeness but also asserts his position within the community. Look closely, and you might notice his stern gaze and formal attire, underscoring his status and authority. The intricate details in the ruff and doublet speak to the values of craftsmanship and material wealth valued during the Baroque period. However, there's a subtle tension in the depiction. While the inscription praises Wolff's honesty and integrity, the somewhat somber tone hints at the pressures of maintaining one's reputation in a hierarchical society. Recknagel invites us to consider the individual behind the social role. The artwork serves not just as a record, but as a mediation on identity, integrity, and the social expectations of the time.