Portret van Jan zonder Vrees, hertog van Bourgondië 1822 - 1863

This is Lazarus Gottlieb Sichling’s portrait of Jan zonder Vrees, Duke of Burgundy, made in the Netherlands in the 19th century. Sichling, a well-known portrait engraver, here reproduces an image of a major figure from early Burgundian history. The image creates meaning through several visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. Jan zonder Vrees, or John the Fearless, was a controversial figure. He was a key player in French politics during the early 15th century, known for his ruthlessness and political maneuvering. The depiction of Jan with a sword alludes to his military and political power. His somewhat melancholic pose might suggest the weight of his responsibilities or perhaps a sense of foreboding, given his eventual assassination. To truly understand this portrait, we must consider the resurgence of interest in medieval history during the 19th century, when the print was made. Historians can delve into archives, political documents, and artistic records to piece together the complex story of Jan zonder Vrees and his place in the collective memory of the Netherlands. Art becomes a window into the past, reflecting the concerns and interests of both the subject and the artist's time.