Portret van Reinier Pauw c. 1630 - 1676

Theodor Matham created this print of Reinier Pauw, a member of the Dutch elite, in the 17th century. This portrait provides a window into the hierarchical society of the Dutch Republic. Pauw’s clothing signifies his social standing: the expensive fur, the wide-brimmed hat, and the ornate chair all speak to his wealth and status. The gesture of his hand, pointing outwards, suggests authority. The Dutch Republic was governed by regents like Pauw, who came from a small group of wealthy merchant families. By the 17th century, they had consolidated their power, forming a kind of oligarchy. This print can be seen as a symbol of that power, reinforcing the social hierarchy of the time. To fully understand this image, we need to delve into the archives of the Dutch Republic, examining the social, political, and economic forces that shaped its society. This kind of research helps us to understand the complex relationship between art and power.