M. H. Kayser 1855

August Barlach created this portrait of M. H. Kayser, leader of the Royal Christian Guard, using lithography, a printmaking technique developed in the late 18th century, which allowed for more affordable reproductions of images. Barlach worked during a period of significant social and political change in Europe. Amidst rising nationalism, these portraits affirmed the importance of military figures. Yet, the artist's own beliefs remain largely unrecorded. The portrait presents Kayser in his military regalia, an outward symbol of power and status. His gaze is direct, his posture upright, conveying authority and confidence. However, the very nature of portraiture raises questions around identity and representation. Is this an accurate portrayal of Kayser, or a carefully constructed image designed to project a certain persona? This work invites us to consider how identity is both performed and perceived, and how art can play a role in shaping public perception.