Portret van Josef Konrad von Schroffenberg 1780 - 1797

This print portraying Josef Konrad von Schroffenberg was created by Joseph Anton Zimmermann, though its exact date remains unknown. The image shows a portrait of von Schroffenberg, a prominent figure, framed by symbols of authority and religious iconography. Consider the all-seeing eye at the top; this motif reflects the cultural and religious context of the time, possibly referencing divine oversight. Below the portrait, the allegorical figures flank a depiction of Maria Brunnen, reflecting both civic pride and perhaps the economic significance of the area. Prints like these, distributed during the 18th century in regions like Austria, served as propaganda tools. Analyzing them involves scrutinizing the historical records, understanding the socio-political climate, and piecing together the visual cues to reveal the complex interplay of power, religion, and identity. Through careful research, one can better understand the public role of art and the social conditions that shape artistic production.