Portret van Christopher Haubold von Houwaldt 1694

This is Samuel Blesendorf’s portrait of Christopher Haubold von Houwaldt, made using etching and engraving techniques. Consider the time this piece was made, in the 17th century, the power of the aristocracy was expressed through such commissioned portraits. Blesendorf captures Christopher in armor, a signifier of status, linking him to military prowess and noble duty. Yet, look closer, the soft curls of his wig disrupt the masculine image armor attempts to convey. This detail offers a glimpse into the complexities of identity. The portrait's formal presentation, complete with Latin inscriptions detailing von Houwaldt’s lineage, served to inscribe him into the historical record. Yet, portraits are never neutral; they actively construct and reinforce social hierarchies. In this context, it invites us to reflect on the visual strategies employed to affirm identities of power.