Portret van Johannes Rambaldo 1822 - 1863

This is Christian Heinrich Gottlieb Steuerwald's portrait of Johannes Rambaldo. While the exact date is unknown, it was likely made in the first half of the 19th century. Here we see the sitter, Johannes Rambaldo, in full military dress, complete with epaulettes and medals. What does it mean to depict someone in uniform? This is an image of power, duty, and service. It speaks to the values of the time, but also to the personal identity of Rambaldo himself. What can we discern about Rambaldo from this work? His stern gaze and formal attire convey a sense of authority, a man of status and accomplishment. This portrait, though seemingly traditional, asks us to consider how individuals are shaped by their roles and how identity is performed through dress and presentation.