Portret van Christiaan Immerzeel 1841 - 1842

This portrait of Christiaan Immerzeel was etched by Coenraad Hamburger in the 19th century. The portrait gives us a glimpse into the world of 19th-century male fashion, capturing the essence of bourgeois identity through carefully chosen symbols. Notice Immerzeel's cravat: a seemingly simple neck accessory, yet laden with historical and cultural weight. The cravat has ancient roots, originally a simple cloth worn by Croatian soldiers, it evolved into a symbol of elegance and status. The cravat, therefore, transcends its utilitarian purpose, embodying ideals of civility, refinement, and social standing. Consider the subtle psychoanalytic dimensions of the cravat as a symbol of constraint and control, subtly hinting at the psychological complexities beneath the surface. Just as the cravat physically binds the neck, it may symbolize the social and emotional constraints placed upon the individual within the rigid framework of bourgeois society. Thus, the cravat is a potent emblem—a silent, powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level.