Thomas Kingo 1829 - 1899

H.P. Hansen created this print of Thomas Kingo at an unknown date. Notice Kingo’s elaborate ruff collar, a symbol of status and formality. It’s not merely a fashion statement; it speaks volumes about the sitter's position in society. The ruff, originating in the mid-16th century, evolved from a small frill to an exaggerated, almost theatrical, neckpiece. Think of the portraits of Queen Elizabeth I, where the ruff serves as a radiant halo, emphasizing her power. This motif reappears across Europe, adorning nobles and dignitaries. Over time, the ruff's impracticality led to its decline, yet its echoes persist in clerical and academic dress. It surfaces in unexpected places, even in contemporary fashion, reminding us how symbols never truly disappear, but are continually reshaped by the currents of cultural memory. The collective subconscious seems to draw us back to these forms, imbuing them with new significance. The ruff becomes a potent emblem of authority, forever imprinted in our minds, a silent yet powerful force that engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level.