Portret van Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz 1680 - 1733

This is Martin Bernigeroth's portrait of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, made using engraving techniques. It’s important to consider the cultural context of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, a period marked by the Enlightenment's emphasis on reason and scientific inquiry. Leibniz, a towering figure of his time, was a polymath whose work spanned mathematics, philosophy, and diplomacy. Bernigeroth's portrait captures Leibniz in a way that emphasizes his intellectual gravitas and status. The elaborate wig and formal attire speak to his position within the social hierarchy of the era. The inscription surrounding the portrait uses language to reinforce Leibniz's importance, situating him as a key advisor and figure of immense knowledge. The artist captures not only the likeness of Leibniz but also the essence of his identity as a celebrated intellectual. This image encapsulates the societal values placed on knowledge and reason during the Enlightenment, offering us a glimpse into the construction of identity and legacy in that period.