Portret van Johann Rothmaler op 49-jarige leeftijd 1650

Ernst Caspar Dürr's portrait immortalizes Johann Rothmaler at age 49, capturing him with symbols of his stature. The book in Rothmaler’s hand is not merely an object; it is a signifier of knowledge, wisdom, and authority, central to his identity as a theologian. Consider the recurrence of the book as a symbol across epochs. In medieval altarpieces, saints often clutch sacred texts, emblems of divine revelation. This motif is echoed in Renaissance portraits, where humanist scholars display volumes, signaling their erudition and connection to classical wisdom. Yet, the book's significance is never static. It evolves from a symbol of religious truth to one of secular knowledge, reflecting humanity's shifting focus. The act of holding the book—a gesture seen across centuries—becomes a powerful link connecting Rothmaler to a lineage of thinkers and spiritual leaders. It engages us on a subconscious level, evoking a collective memory of learning and enlightenment. This simple object is laden with the weight of history, resurfacing and evolving with each new context.