Portret van Richard Wilhelm von Zelking 1582 - 1671

Heinrich Ulrich created this engraving, “Portret van Richard Wilhelm von Zelking”, whereabouts unknown. The portrait offers a glimpse into the conventions of representing young aristocratic men in the 16th and 17th centuries. Richard Wilhelm's attire and the Latin inscriptions reflect his social standing, and the visual language of status and virtue that was a currency of power. Interestingly, the text hints at deeper themes: morality, virtue, and faith. The inscription, which translates to "Virtue is more graceful than beauty," brings the subject to a larger discussion about the era's emphasis on inner qualities over outward appearance. It's a potent reminder that portraits are not merely likenesses but also carefully constructed statements of identity, shaped by the cultural values of their time.