Portret van Gundaker Thomas von Starhemberg 1705 - 1745

Christian Fritzsch created this portrait of Gundaker Thomas von Starhemberg with etching somewhere between the late 17th and early 18th century. The image conveys the status and importance of this Austrian statesman through a symbolic visual language, common at the time. Starhemberg is framed in an oval cartouche, the sort of frame you'd see on a classical monument, and surrounded by allegorical figures: one resembling the Roman goddess Minerva, the other one an angel sounding a trumpet, perhaps announcing Starhemberg’s arrival. The cherubs emptying cornucopias full of coins imply his wealth and generosity. The coat of arms below the portrait further signifies the man’s power and nobility. This system of imagery elevates the individual to the level of myth. Understanding this historical context is vital to interpreting the piece. We can look at archival records, family histories, and other period artwork to uncover the meanings behind the symbols used in this portrait and the associated social conventions and institutional settings. Doing so helps us to fully appreciate the portrait's statement about power, status, and the individual's place in society.