Portret van Ludwig von Hörnigk op 38-jarige leeftijd 1638

This engraving portrays Ludwig von Hörnigk at age 38, rendered by Sebastian Furck. The composition is replete with symbols reflecting Hörnigk’s status and the cultural values of his time. Note the angels flanking the upper frame, guardians of intellect and spirit, framing Hörnigk. This cherubic motif harkens back to classical antiquity, where winged figures symbolized divine messengers and protectors. The presence of Latin inscriptions further anchors the work in a tradition of humanist learning. The inscription "Ringitur invidia Momo, dum zeilo ardet" introduces the figure of Momus, the Greek god of mockery, whose snarling visage suggests the presence of envy or criticism. Compare this to similar figures lurking in the shadows of Renaissance paintings, representing the ever-present threat of negative judgment. Observe how such images tap into primal anxieties about social acceptance. The portrait embodies a timeless struggle between aspiration and detraction, wisdom and ignorance.