Portret van Johannes Agricola II op 49-jarige leeftijd 1638 - 1699

Cornelis Nicolaus Schurtz made this print of Johannes Agricola II in 1638. It presents Agricola at 49 years of age. It's fascinating to consider the social standing that portraiture, especially in print form, conveyed in the 17th century. Agricola, holding what appears to be a alchemist's flask, is presented as a figure of learning and status, denoted by his clothing. This image creates meaning through references to science, knowledge, and social standing. Made in the Netherlands, a hub of intellectual and artistic exchange at the time, this print reflects the growing importance of the individual and the rise of scientific inquiry. Understanding this artwork requires considering the social and institutional contexts in which it was produced. What was the role of scientific societies? How did images circulate and contribute to the construction of public figures? These are questions we can begin to answer through archival research and historical analysis, allowing us to appreciate the intricate connections between art, society, and the individuals who shaped them.