Portret van Johan Wilhelm Wilms 1842 - 1887

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this portrait of Johan Willhelm Wilms using lithography. Notice the book held by Wilms; it is more than just a prop. The book is an emblem of knowledge, a symbol that stretches back to antiquity, seen in depictions of philosophers and scribes. The act of holding a book signifies intellectual pursuits, wisdom, and the transmission of culture. Yet, its meaning evolves. In medieval times, it was linked with religious devotion, reappearing during the Renaissance with humanistic scholarship. Think of ancient Roman sculptures depicting emperors holding scrolls, projecting an image of learned authority. The gesture of holding the book invites introspection. It is a quiet, powerful force, engaging viewers subconsciously, evoking both respect for knowledge and a sense of personal reflection. The book reminds us of the cyclical progression of symbols, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings.