Portret van Georg Mendel 1656 - 1722

Curator: Looking at this portrait, I feel an overwhelming sense of history, a presence almost tangible. It’s quite haunting in its way, don't you think? Editor: Indeed. We're looking at a portrayal of Georg Mendel, a senator from Nuremberg. The piece, dating sometime between 1656 and 1722, currently resides here at the Rijksmuseum. It offers such a direct, no-frills depiction, wouldn't you agree? Curator: "No-frills" hits the nail on the head. There’s a severity, almost a coldness in his gaze. The texture of the etching enhances that effect, everything sharply defined in a restricted palette. A formidable character seems to be emerging out of the shadows. It makes me wonder what defined Mendel? Editor: Well, portraying public figures through engravings became increasingly popular during this period. This portrait would have helped consolidate and disseminate Mendel’s image as a pillar of the community, an upstanding public servant. It served a very specific political and social function. Curator: So it’s not so much about capturing his soul as reinforcing a role? That’s interesting – it still conveys so much to us today. I'm wondering, how different that image is from the person, the ordinary being Mendel, underneath the layers and beneath that stern gaze? Editor: That tension between the public and private is, of course, central to portraiture of this era. Mendel is intentionally presented with visual cues denoting status: the fur-trimmed robe, the cap, and the chain of office are all quite deliberate choices made to convey a very clear message about civic authority. Curator: Almost like he’s performing, playing the role of a senator. I keep coming back to the shadow play and the subtle light that draws you to the detail of his expression. What a skill. There's a story behind his eyes! I wish artworks like these could talk. Editor: Perhaps this audio guide goes a little way to giving Georg Mendel a voice again, and sparking imagination centuries later. Curator: Precisely! It’s incredible how these remnants of the past resonate and spark our reflections. Thank you for shedding light!