Portret van Wolfgang Philipp Ernst 1712

Andreas Matthäus Wolfgang created this portrait of Wolfgang Philipp Ernst. Here, the sheet music takes centre stage. In the 17th century, music was not merely entertainment; it symbolized harmony, divine order, and the mathematical precision of the cosmos. Ernst’s gesture of pointing towards the score suggests an invitation to contemplate these deeper meanings. Consider how the motif of the musical score appears in earlier illuminated manuscripts, where music was linked to sacred texts and spiritual enlightenment. The act of pointing, too, is laden with meaning. It's reminiscent of depictions of philosophers or saints directing attention towards wisdom or divine truth. Yet, over time, this gesture has evolved, sometimes acquiring connotations of accusation or instruction. It is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. It is a cyclical progression, which resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in different historical contexts.