Portret van Friedrich Carl, Freiherr von Moser 1765 - 1836

Christoph-Wilhelm Bock created this portrait of Friedrich Carl, Freiherr von Moser, in an unknown year using etching. Look closely at the profile depicted. Reflect for a moment on how the sitter’s gaze avoids meeting ours directly. This portrait encapsulates the socio-political identity of its subject as a ‘prophet, apostle, martyr and confessor of the political church.’ During the 18th century, when this was made, the concept of political identity was deeply entwined with religious and philosophical beliefs. Moser’s aristocratic status is rendered through the details of his clothing, powdered wig, and the ornamental frame, which speak to the privileges of his class. This work presents a narrative of leadership intertwined with a sense of unwavering conviction. The choice of depicting him in profile denies us a personal connection. The artwork invites us to contemplate the relationship between personal identity, faith, and political action. It challenges us to consider the emotional weight carried by individuals who align themselves with contentious sociopolitical causes.