Grev Ernst Heinrich Schimmelman 1828 - 1832

This is a portrait of Grev Ernst Heinrich Schimmelman by Asmus Kaufmann. The lithograph captures Schimmelman, a figure of considerable wealth and influence in Danish society, seated with an air of composed authority. The portrait offers a window into the intertwined nature of economic power, class, and identity during the 18th and 19th centuries. Schimmelman's wealth was largely built on the sugar trade, which relied on enslaved labor in the West Indies. While he later became involved in efforts to abolish the slave trade, his initial prosperity was undeniably rooted in this brutal system. Kaufmann’s depiction of Schimmelman, adorned with symbols of status, prompts us to reflect on the complex legacies of historical figures. It challenges us to consider how their contributions and achievements intersect with the social and ethical implications of their economic activities. This portrait serves as a reminder of the intricate ways in which individual identity is shaped by historical forces.