Portret van Johann Gottfried Hermann 1747

Editor: Here we have "Portret van Johann Gottfried Hermann," an engraving on paper made in 1747 by Johann Martin Bernigeroth. There's something so formal and a little austere about this portrait, even though it’s relatively small. The details are incredibly sharp for an engraving. What stands out to you the most? Curator: Ah, isn’t it something? It's the wig that first captures me—that powdered cascade, such a statement of the 18th century! But really, look at the composition; it feels like Hermann is presenting himself through a proscenium. We are in the theater of reputation, darling. The window into knowledge behind him contrasts with his active open gesture, doesn’t it? As if to say, here I am, both scholar and active in this world. Doesn't he seem like he might whisper some sage wisdom if you got close enough? Editor: Definitely! I didn’t consider how staged it feels. Do you think that level of control was common in Baroque portraiture? Curator: Absolutely. Baroque portraiture is as much about projecting status and control, and, might I add, optimism! Now, does Bernigeroth give us raw insight here, or present us a meticulously crafted narrative? Do you see any shadow of doubt there in the subject? I find this quite wonderful to witness so directly through his delicate work. Editor: You've completely changed my perspective! I was so focused on the details. I now see the theatrical elements and staged presence, presenting this confident and very public figure. Curator: It all adds up, doesn’t it? History, presented through tiny, but effective marks!