Peder Hansen Resen 1753 - 1754

Jonas Haas created this engraving of Peder Hansen Resen. The print gives us insight into the complex interplay between identity, power, and representation during the 18th century. The portrait presents Resen, a prominent figure in Copenhagen, in a manner befitting his social standing. His clothing and pose are carefully constructed to convey authority and intellect. It is important to remember how the elite distinguished themselves through fashion and portraiture, visually reinforcing hierarchical social structures. Consider the historical context, the Age of Enlightenment, where reason and individualism were gaining prominence. How might Resen, as a figure of authority, have navigated these changing intellectual currents? What role did men play in the political arena? The image invites us to reflect on the ways in which identity is both a personal construct and a product of broader social forces.