Portret van Friedrich Söhner 1687 - 1707

This is Charles de La Haye’s portrait of Friedrich Sohner, made sometime around the late 17th century. This finely detailed print gives us a glimpse into the world of a prominent clergyman during a period of significant religious and intellectual change. Sohner’s identity as a "Minister of the Divine Word" places him firmly within the religious landscape of the time, when the role of the church was deeply interwoven with social and political life. The Latin inscription surrounding his portrait speaks to his virtues of mind, labor, and faith, offering insight into the values and expectations placed upon religious figures. What resonates with me is how Sohner’s gaze seems to hold a weight of responsibility, hinting at the complex negotiations between personal conviction and public duty during a time of religious and social upheaval. The portrait invites us to reflect on the individuals who navigated these challenges, shaping the course of history through their beliefs and actions.