Portret van Jacob Wilhelm Imhof 1712

Martin Bernigeroth created this engraving of Jacob Wilhelm Imhof sometime between 1670 and 1733. It’s a formal portrait meant to convey status and importance through its symbolism. Imhof's elaborate wig was a symbol of power and belonging to the elite circles of the 17th and 18th centuries, marking his gender and class identity. His garments signify his affluence, reflecting the economic disparities of the era. The text on the engraving identifies him as a councilor and treasurer, reinforcing his societal role and power within the Republic. Bernigeroth's portrait also prompts us to consider who is missing from these historical records. While Imhof’s identity is prominently displayed, the lives and identities of marginalized individuals—women, people of color, and the working class—are noticeably absent, raising questions about representation and historical narratives. The portrait captures a moment in time, reflecting both personal identity and the broader structures of power and exclusion.