Portret van Johan Lodewijk, graaf van Nassau-Hadamar 17th century

This is an engraving of Johan Lodewijk, Count of Nassau-Hadamar, likely made in the 17th century. The identity of the artist has been lost to history. The image speaks to the visual codes of power and status within the European aristocracy of the time. Note the ornate frame, the Count’s lace collar, and the chain with prominent medallions. These are all markers of wealth and noble rank, visually reinforcing the social hierarchy. The Latin inscription below the portrait further emphasizes his titles and connections to the Holy Roman Empire. Prints like these served various purposes, including circulating images of rulers and elites, solidifying their authority through representation. To fully understand the context, we might consult genealogical records, period correspondence, and histories of the House of Nassau. What seems like a simple portrait reveals a complex web of social, political, and institutional forces at play.