Portret van Georg Christoph Walther 1656 - 1675

This is Georg Strauch's "Portret van Georg Christoph Walther," a 17th-century engraving. What immediately strikes one is the stark contrast achieved through meticulous lines, a dance of dark and light that defines the subject's features and clothing. Walther is framed within an oval border, itself encased in a rectangular field filled with text. This layering of frames creates a visual hierarchy, emphasizing Walther's importance but also embedding him within a network of textual meaning. The lines are not merely representational, they are constitutive, building the image through a system of marks. This structured approach to portraiture aligns with the period's interest in order and classification, reflecting a world seen through the lens of emerging scientific and philosophical frameworks. Consider how Strauch uses the engraving to highlight the importance of textual representation alongside visual depiction. This interplay between image and text isn't just decorative, but it suggests a deeper engagement with how knowledge and identity are constructed.