Portret van Beat Zurlauben 1628 - 1689

This engraving of Beat Zurlauben was made by Conrad Meyer. It's a fascinating example of how portraiture functioned within the social and political landscape of 17th-century Switzerland. The portrait is framed by an oval, inscribed with Latin text, indicating Zurlauben's noble status and role as magistrate of Zug. Meyer's detailed rendering of Zurlauben's features and attire is a visual code, signaling his position within the social hierarchy. The inclusion of Latin text, a language of the educated elite, reinforces this sense of exclusivity and authority. Consider the social conditions in which this print was produced. Switzerland at this time was a confederation of cantons, each with its own distinct political and social structures. Portraiture played a crucial role in solidifying power and status within these communities. It reflected and reinforced existing social norms, presenting idealized images of leadership and authority. To fully understand this image, one might delve into the archives of the Zurlauben family, examining their role in Swiss history.