Portret van Pedro Enríquez de Acevedo, graaf van Fuentes 1600 - 1604

This engraving portrays Pedro Enríquez de Acevedo, Count of Fuentes, and was made around 1595 by Dominicus Custos. The image creates meaning through visual codes that draw on cultural references and historical associations. We see a man in armor, suggesting a military leader, framed by an oval border. The inscription around him tells us that he is the supreme commander in the Catholic region of Belgium. The formal language of the inscription underlines the prestige associated with his position. As historians of art, we can look at the social conditions that shaped the making of this print. The technologies of printmaking were very important for disseminating images, particularly in times of war and social conflict. The Rijksmuseum’s collection is a resource that helps us to understand the role of visual media in European history. The politics of imagery shaped social perceptions, contributing to the rise of national identities and consolidating social power.