Portret van Christoph Herdesianus c. 1597 - 1669

This engraving, made by Theodor de Bry around the late 16th century, depicts Christoph Herdesianus, a syndic from Nuremberg. The image, produced in the Netherlands, offers insight into the cultural values of the time. The portrait is framed by architectural elements and floral ornamentation, visually elevating the status of the sitter. His fur-lined robe and elaborate ruff signify wealth and social standing. The books and writing tools on the table allude to his profession and intellectual pursuits, whilst the Latin inscription emphasizes his education and connection to classical tradition. The Netherlands during this period was undergoing significant social and political change, especially within the realm of religious reform. Engravings such as this played a role in disseminating ideas and reinforcing the social order by portraying figures of authority. To fully understand the context of this portrait, a historian might look to period texts, genealogical records, and studies of costume and social customs. The image thus becomes a window into the world of 16th-century European elites and their relationship to learning, status, and power.