Portret van John More 1809 - 1854

Willem Hendrik Franquinet made this portrait of John More using chalk. Notice the sitter's attire. The hat and fur collar carry echoes of garments depicted in Renaissance portraits of scholars and statesmen. Such garments transcend mere fashion; they are imbued with meaning, signifying wisdom, authority, and a connection to a lineage of thinkers and leaders. We can see echoes of this in portraits like those of Erasmus, where the somber dress and intellectual demeanor convey a sense of profound knowledge and moral gravitas. The fur collar, for example, initially a practical item, evolved into a symbol of status and erudition. Consider how such symbols recur across epochs, each time imbued with the nuances of their specific cultural moment. The image engages us on a deep, almost subconscious level, evoking feelings of respect and contemplation. These symbols aren't static; they evolve, resurface, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.