Portret van Desiderius Erasmus 1610 - 1647

Hendrick Lambertsz. Roghman created this print of Desiderius Erasmus. Erasmus, the great humanist, is here presented in a scholar’s cap and fur-lined robes. The fur itself is a fascinating symbol. Beyond mere warmth, it speaks of status and scholarly gravitas, reminiscent of similar adornments in portraits of philosophers and dignitaries throughout the ages. Think of the ancient Greek philosophers draped in animal skins, symbols of wisdom and authority. Fur, in this context, becomes more than just clothing; it is a visual signifier, a connection to the past. The psychological weight of such symbols is profound. By invoking these historical echoes, Roghman engages our collective memory, stirring subconscious associations with knowledge, respect, and tradition. This visual language, passed down through generations, affects our perception of Erasmus, imbuing him with an aura of intellectual power. The symbol of fur resurfaces, evolving through different historical contexts, to communicate status and scholarly prowess.