Portret van Christoffel, graaf van Dhona 1616 - 1637

This is Theodor Matham’s portrait of Christoffel, Count of Dhona, created as an engraving sometime in the 17th century, a medium well-suited to disseminating images and ideas in early modern Europe. As a visual record, the print provides insight into the world of Dutch nobility during the period. Note the count's attire – the elaborate lace collar and the gleaming armor, visual cues that speak to his status and role as a leader and protector. The Latin inscription framing the portrait translates to ‘the true image of the illustrious hero,’ reinforcing the image of power and nobility. But portraits like these weren't just about individual likeness. They helped to maintain social hierarchies, preserve the memory of important figures, and promote a sense of national identity. To fully understand the meaning of this image, we might turn to archival sources, genealogical records, and other historical documents. By doing so, we can better understand how the institutions of power are reflected – and reinforced – in the art of the time.