Portret van Jeremias de Decker 1692 - 1743

This engraving, an anonymous portrait of Jeremias de Decker, presents us with more than just a likeness; it is a window into the cultural soul of its time. The sitter's wide-brimmed hat, a prominent feature, speaks volumes. In Decker’s era, headwear was more than mere fashion; it signified status, profession, and even moral standing. This hat could symbolize his intellectual aspirations, or his connection to a broader, perhaps non-conformist, cultural movement. Consider how headwear evolves as a signifier across cultures, from the laurel wreaths of antiquity denoting victory and wisdom, to the dunce cap of the scholastic world, a mark of shame. These symbols resurface, laden with new significance, tapping into a collective consciousness. In this portrait, the hat acts as a psychological focal point, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, inviting us to ponder the man beneath and his place in the world. A powerful force that shows the non-linear progression of symbols that have resurfaced and evolved through history.