Portret van Máximo, 1857 1857

This is an 1857 portrait of Máximo, created by an anonymous artist. This lithograph provides a window into 19th-century perceptions of race, disability, and identity. Máximo was one of two siblings with a condition known as Seckel syndrome, which causes dwarfism and intellectual disability. The inscription “Aztecs” reflects the fascination with pre-Columbian civilizations and the persistent, yet false, association of indigenous people with the concept of "primitive man." The artist has depicted Máximo in European clothing, indicating an attempt to ‘civilize’ him. This representation highlights the complexities of Máximo's identity, caught between scientific curiosity, and the prevailing cultural norms of the time. This lithograph is both a historical document and a poignant reminder of the ethical issues surrounding the representation and treatment of marginalized individuals.