Portret van Christoph II Kreß von Kressenstein 1595 - 1628

Hans Troschel created this engraving of Christoph II Kreß von Kressenstein sometime between 1585 and 1628. It offers a window into the identity and status of a man during the late Renaissance. The portrait is encircled by an inscription noting Christoph's role as a member of the Inner Council of Nuremberg and his death. His clothing, including the ornate robe and beret, speaks to his social standing and profession, while his hand gestures towards a book, symbolizing his literacy and scholarly pursuits. The sword on his hip is a stark reminder of how power was maintained during this period. It’s impossible to ignore the history of power and privilege embedded within this portrait. While we see Christoph's individual identity, we must also consider the broader societal structures that enabled his position and status. The portrait invites us to consider whose stories are told and whose are left out. It captures not just an individual, but a reflection of societal values of the time.