Portret van Georges Cuvier 1801 - 1847

Pierre François Bertonnier created this portrait of Georges Cuvier using engraving techniques in the early 19th century. Cuvier, a towering figure in natural science, established the fields of comparative anatomy and paleontology, but his legacy is complex, particularly when viewed through today's lens. Cuvier’s theories on race, deeply rooted in the era’s scientific racism, positioned Europeans at the pinnacle of human development, impacting social hierarchies and colonial ideologies. His scientific contributions were undeniably significant, yet they were intertwined with now-discredited racial theories, reflecting the complex relationship between scientific advancement and social biases of his time. Bertonnier's portrait immortalizes Cuvier, but it also invites us to consider the societal context that shaped both his scientific achievements and his problematic views. This image serves not just as a depiction of a man, but as a touchstone for discussions on science, society, and the biases that influence our understanding of the world.