Portret van Pharamond, koning der Franken 1598

Jost Amman created this print of Pharamond, King of the Franks, using etching and letterpress techniques. Prints like this, made in the late 16th century, helped shape historical and cultural narratives. The image of Pharamond, framed in a decorative border, romanticizes power and lineage. Consider how the symbols of royalty, like the scepter, reinforce ideas of male leadership and dynastic succession. The print presents a specific version of history, one that emphasizes the power of rulers while often marginalizing the experiences and contributions of others. How do these historical representations shape our understanding of identity and power today? What emotional impact does this idealized image of a king have on you, especially considering the complex histories of colonialism and inequality that these figures often represent?