Fotoreproductie van een getekend portret van Heinrich Heine door Ernst Hader 1879

This is a photographic reproduction by Sophus Williams, of a drawn portrait of Heinrich Heine, the famous German poet, essayist, and literary critic. In his time, Heine was something of a political radical. Though grounded in the Romantic tradition, he challenged traditional social norms, embracing Enlightenment ideals and advocating for social justice. His writings often criticized political repression and religious dogma. Considering this, a portrait of Heine in the late 19th century becomes more than just an image, it's a statement. In Wilhelmine Germany, Heine's progressive ideas were often suppressed by the establishment. So, to display his image was a self-consciously progressive act, asserting the enduring relevance and challenging conservative cultural institutions. Understanding this requires a look into literary history, social movements, and the complex relationship between art and politics in 19th-century Europe. The meaning of this reproduction is contingent on its social and institutional context.