Portret van rooms-koning Albrecht I 1557 - 1559

This is Joos Gietleughen’s portrait of the Roman King Albert I, likely created as an engraving within a printed book. Notice how the image of the King is framed within a golden seal. The style of the image evokes classical antiquity, with Albert depicted in regal attire, holding an orb and scepter. These are potent visual cues that establish his authority. The Latin inscription, “Gratia Rex Albertus Dei,” emphasizes his divinely sanctioned rule. Consider the social context: this image appeared at a time when European monarchies were consolidating power. Kings relied on visual propaganda to reinforce their legitimacy. This portrait would have served to project an image of strength and stability, reinforcing Albert’s position within the Holy Roman Empire. To fully understand this portrait, we might consult historical records, such as royal archives and contemporary chronicles. The meaning of art is inseparable from the social and institutional conditions that bring it into being.