Portret van August II von Braunschweig-Lüneburg 1650

Conrad Buno created this print of August II von Braunschweig-Lüneburg, sometime in the 17th century. The piece gives us a glimpse into the elaborate ways that identity and status were performed by those in power at the time. Notice how August II is framed between symbols of knowledge and power. These symbols, along with his fashionable dress, were carefully chosen to broadcast his position. The detailed lace, the sword at his side, and the walking stick all point to his wealth and authority. But what does it mean to perform power? August II's identity was shaped by his gender, class, and the expectations of his time. He was expected to be a leader, a scholar, and a symbol of strength. This portrait isn't just a picture of a man, but a carefully constructed image designed to project a specific message about who he was and what he stood for. The image encourages us to consider the cost of these performances, and who is included or excluded.