Portret van Christoph Gottlob Gründig 1752 - 1803

Christian Gottlieb Geyser created this print of Christoph Gottlob Gründig using etching. This formal portrait reflects the rigid social structures of its time, where status was visually communicated through dress and pose. Gründig, a pastor and superintendent, is presented in a manner befitting his esteemed position. The trappings of his religious office signal a life devoted to faith and community leadership. However, the portrait is also a study in the power dynamics of the 18th century. It subtly reflects the social expectations and constraints placed upon individuals within the religious hierarchy. It evokes questions about identity and the performance of self. How much of Gründig's personality is captured versus the role he plays in society? This image encapsulates the intersection of personal identity and public expectation, inviting us to consider how individuals navigate the roles they inhabit.