Portret van Berchtold Haller 1597 - 1599

Robert Boissard created this engraving titled "Portret van Berchtold Haller" sometime in the 17th century. The portrait commemorates Berchtold Haller, a Swiss theologian and reformer during the Protestant Reformation. Engravings like this one played a crucial role in disseminating images and ideas during the period. Boissard was working during a time of religious and political upheaval. Haller himself was instrumental in introducing the Reformation to Bern, Switzerland, which challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to significant social changes. The inclusion of Latin text further suggests the print's intended audience amongst the educated elite. Understanding the historical context is crucial to interpreting the print. We might consult church records, pamphlets, and theological texts from the period to fully understand the significance of Haller's work and the impact of the Reformation on Swiss society. By exploring these resources, we can appreciate how art like this was not merely a portrait, but a tool in shaping public opinion and preserving legacies.