Portret van Philipp Streuff von Lauenstein 1652

This is a portrait of Philipp Streuff von Lauenstein, made by Matthäus Merian the Elder, sometime before his death in 1650. Merian was a significant figure in the history of printmaking, working during the upheavals of the Thirty Years' War. His images offer insight into the politics and personalities of the era. Streuff, as depicted here, held important positions within the Palatinate and Bavarian courts. The inscription underscores his status, listing his titles and affiliations with powerful rulers. Consider the emotional weight of portraiture during this period. More than just likenesses, portraits served to assert identity and project power. What does Streuff's stern gaze and formal attire communicate about his sense of self and place in the world? How does Merian's technical skill in engraving contribute to this representation of authority and status?