Portret en titelpagina voor de Lauenburg kalender 1783 1782

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki created this etching, titled ‘Portrait and title page for the Lauenburg Calendar 1783,’ around that same year in Germany. Almanacs at this time weren’t just about keeping track of the days; they were cultural objects, filled with everything from agricultural advice to moral lessons, and even astrological predictions. This particular calendar, published in Lauenburg, catered to a specific audience, the König family, as evidenced by the term ‘Genealogical Calendar.’ Notice how the portrait of ‘Maria’ is framed by delicate floral patterns, while the calendar title is surrounded by symbols of the zodiac. These visual cues speak to the period's fascination with genealogy, astrology, and the natural world. The image shows us how knowledge was disseminated and consumed in the late 18th century. To fully understand its significance, we might delve into the König family's history, explore the publishing industry in Lauenburg, or examine the era's broader cultural and intellectual trends through periodicals. The interpretation of art relies on a deep understanding of its social and institutional context.