Portret van Christian Gottfried Hennig 1780 - 1809

Johann Elias Haid created this print of Christian Gottfried Hennig, a merchant from Gera, Germany, sometime in the late 18th century. The print, a mezzotint, presents Hennig's likeness framed in an oval, set above a plaque detailing his name and profession. Prints like these served a crucial role in solidifying social status and maintaining networks of power. Portraiture, even in printed form, was a tool for the rising merchant class to emulate the visual language of the aristocracy. The inclusion of Hennig's coat of arms below his image further emphasizes his aspirations to social prominence. Haid's print invites us to consider the evolving relationship between art and commerce in 18th-century Germany. Researching genealogical records and local histories of Gera can reveal the extent of Hennig's influence and the impact of his merchant activities on the region. Ultimately, this print is a window into the social ambitions of a man and the society that shaped him.