Portret van Nikolaus von Hontheim 1775

This is a portrait engraving of Johann Nikolaus von Hontheim, a German Catholic theologian and Bishop of Trier. It was created by Johann Friedrich Schleuen, a German engraver, in 1775. The engraving depicts a bust-length portrait of Hontheim, surrounded by a decorative oval frame. The detail of Hontheim’s attire, such as the rochet and the pectoral cross, reveals his position as a Bishop, a title of high rank within the Catholic Church. This image is likely an illustration or frontispiece for a book, as the text below his image details his life and work. The engraving is a prime example of portraiture during the 18th century, often used as a means of documenting and celebrating individuals of importance.