Portret van Athanasius Kircher 1704 - 1765

Editor: So, this print is called "Portret van Athanasius Kircher," dating somewhere between 1704 and 1765. It's currently held at the Rijksmuseum and created by Johann Friedrich Schmidt. Looking at the texture and the sepia tones, it evokes a sense of history. What do you see in this portrait that stands out to you? Curator: Immediately, I'm drawn into his gaze, almost a penetrating look that invites me to learn his story. Considering the historical period, printmaking served to disseminate knowledge and perpetuate memory. The engraving’s meticulous details of Athanasius Kircher suggest the important role that engravings had. Have you heard about Kircher? Editor: Vaguely! Was he a notable figure? Curator: Indeed! A 17th-century Jesuit scholar, often dubbed a "master of a hundred arts." He was a polymath! Everything from volcanology to Egyptology fascinated him! Editor: That's fascinating! Does this explain why there is no symbolism of the sitter's persona in the piece? Curator: I wouldn't necessarily agree. His serious appearance can evoke his pursuit of academic studies, as evidenced by the print itself and the inscription within it. He must be understood not just as a scientist, but also as a visionary! And don't forget, artists back then wanted to convey their vision of what made up this polymath person! I guess Schmidt achieved it in the end. Editor: It's truly remarkable how much information and personality is encapsulated in one image. It feels like stepping into a time capsule! Curator: Absolutely. Thinking about Kircher's diverse work combined with this engraving style offers new avenues of inquiry on the intellectual world of his period. This image is also a starting point, leading viewers down corridors they never even imagined existed. Editor: I am certainly learning a lot from this engraving. Thanks for sharing the perspective!