Portret van Carl Philipp von Wrede 1814 - 1825

Friedrich Wilhelm Bollinger created this print of Carl Philipp von Wrede using etching and aquatint. This portrait encapsulates the era of military and aristocratic power in the early 19th century. Wrede, a field marshal in the Kingdom of Bavaria, is depicted with the stern gaze and ornate military attire that visually reinforced his authority and status. The meticulous detail in his uniform, laden with medals and embellishments, speaks to the values of honor and hierarchy prevalent at the time. Consider, though, that such displays of power were often built on a foundation of social inequalities. This image presents a carefully constructed representation of authority, one that invites us to reflect on the relationship between individual identity, social class, and historical narratives. How does this portrait affirm or challenge our understanding of historical power dynamics?