Portret van F.A. Kortz c. 1851 - 1883

This is a print of F.A. Kortz made by Johan Hendrik Hoffmeister, likely in the mid-19th century. Through the sharp lines of the engraving, Hoffmeister offers us a glimpse into the military and social structures of the Netherlands. The image is rich with meaning; Kortz’s uniform tells a story of status and service. Consider how the artist uses the visual language of rank - the epaulettes, the medals, the very cut of the jacket - to communicate power and authority. This wasn't just about likeness; it was about projecting an image of the military elite within Dutch society. The image was likely commissioned or made for family. To truly understand this portrait, we would need to delve into the military archives of the Netherlands, examining the records of Kortz's service and the regulations governing military dress. Through such research, the role of art as a reflection of - and a participant in - the social hierarchies of the time becomes clear.