Portret van de schrijver en arts Ernestus Ras 1664

This engraving, made in Leeuwarden in 1664 by Jan Veenhuysen, presents a portrait of the writer and physician Ernestus Ras. It connects Ras to the prestigious lineage of medical knowledge by including likenesses of Hippocrates and Galen, figures whose authority endured well into the 17th century. The image is filled with cultural and historical associations. It explicitly promotes Ras's translation and interpretation of Hippocrates’s Aphorisms. The scene at the bottom depicts a doctor tending to a patient, reinforcing the importance of medical care. In the context of the Dutch Golden Age, where advancements in science and medicine were highly valued, this print serves not only as a portrait but also as a statement about Ras's contribution to the intellectual life of his time. To fully appreciate this work, one might delve into the history of medical publishing in the 17th century, exploring the networks of scholars and printers that facilitated the spread of knowledge. Understanding the social conditions that shaped artistic production allows us to see how art reflects and shapes cultural values.