Portret van Karl Cäsar von Leonhard 1785 - 1858

This is Friedrich Rossmässler’s portrait of Karl Cäsar von Leonhard, made in the 19th century. The print captures Leonhard, a professor of mineralogy, adorned with medals, signaling status in a society deeply structured by class and academic achievement. Rossmässler lived during a time of significant social upheaval and scientific advancement. These advancements shaped not only knowledge but also access to it, accentuating class divisions. The portrait, therefore, is not just a depiction of an individual, but also a symbol of the era's stratified society, where scientific knowledge and status were closely intertwined. Consider the power dynamics at play. Who had the privilege of having their portrait made, and who was remembered? Rossmässler’s work provides a glimpse into the past, inviting us to reflect on the legacies we inherit and the stories that remain untold.