Portret van Friedrich Heinrich Carl van Pruisen 1762 - 1833

Meno Haas created this print of Friedrich Heinrich Carl van Pruisen using etching techniques. We see the young prince in profile, framed by an oval, and inscribed with his name and title. This image speaks to the politics of portraiture in 18th century Prussia, reflecting the prevailing social hierarchy. The image functions to reproduce and reinforce the power of the Prussian aristocracy. The very act of commissioning and disseminating portraits was a means for the elite to assert their status. Haas, as the printmaker, played a role in this system. The etching was likely intended for circulation among a select audience, further consolidating the prince's image within elite circles. Further research into Prussian court records, correspondence, and period publications would reveal more about the print's intended audience and its reception.