Hertug Frederik af Lyksburg 1778

This is Andreas Stöttrup’s engraving of Hertug Frederik af Lyksburg, likely made around the late 18th century and held at the SMK. Notice how the composition is rigidly structured, framed within an ornate rectangular border. This contrasts with the softer, organic elements of the laurel wreath encircling the Duke’s portrait. The portrait itself, tightly framed in an oval, draws immediate focus. Stöttrup uses a dense network of fine lines to render texture and form. This is particularly visible in the detailed depiction of the Duke's armor. The inscription at the base isn’t merely descriptive, it acts as a plinth, solidifying the Duke's status. The interplay between the portrait’s lifelike quality and the geometric framework creates a tension. The form reflects Enlightenment ideals of order and reason, yet the medium of engraving—with its capacity for intricate detail—introduces a layer of complexity, suggesting deeper historical and cultural narratives. The engraving then, becomes more than a mere depiction; it's a structured statement about identity and power.