Overzicht van de hiërarchie in het Heilige Roomse Rijk (onderste deel) 1688 - 1757

Curator: So, here we have a section of Matthaeus Seutter’s “Overview of the Hierarchy in the Holy Roman Empire,” created sometime between 1688 and 1757. It's a print, an engraving with colour. Editor: It's fascinating how this artwork tries to capture a social structure visually, in print form. There's such an emphasis on rank and order. What jumps out at you? Curator: The sheer density of figures, each carefully labeled, tells a story. Note how clothing serves as a powerful symbol. Each rank—abbots, princes, knights, cities—is distinguished by very specific attire. Can you detect a unifying visual element that speaks to power? Editor: Maybe their postures? Most figures hold themselves quite formally, erect and dignified, suggesting authority and the weight of their positions within the Empire. Is it fair to assume that's what someone at the time would gather as well? Curator: Precisely. Posture, gaze, and the presence (or absence) of heraldic devices were critical. It creates a visual language, almost like a code, instantly conveying information about status and allegiance. How do you think this sort of imagery reinforced the existing social order? Editor: It seems to visually cement the hierarchy, making it seem natural and inevitable. By representing each rank distinctly, it reinforces their separateness but also their place within the grand scheme. Almost like saying, “This is how things are, and this is where you belong.” Curator: Indeed. And the very act of creating such a detailed visual record underscores the perceived importance of maintaining that order. What I take away from this work is a culture deeply concerned with symbolic representation of power. Editor: So, much more than just a portrait, this is a visualization of a whole social and political philosophy.