Sognepræst Wilhelm Thiess 1816 - 1866

This portrait of Sognepræst Wilhelm Thiess was made by Johann Martin Graack. Note the book held by Thiess, a powerful symbol throughout history. It represents knowledge, wisdom, and the sacred word, in this case, the holy scriptures. Consider how this motif echoes through time, from ancient Egyptian scrolls to medieval illuminated manuscripts. The act of holding a book signifies not just literacy but a profound connection to learning and spiritual understanding. Observe the subject's grasp, a gesture that suggests reverence. The book becomes an attribute of power and authority, like a scepter or a royal emblem. The motif is a constant reminder of humanity's enduring quest for knowledge and enlightenment, a quest that continues to resonate with us on a deep, subconscious level.