Portret van Werner Seuter c. 1597 - 1669

Editor: So this is "Portrait of Werner Seuter" from around 1597 to 1669 by Theodor de Bry, at the Rijksmuseum. It's an engraving on paper. It's quite detailed, and the subject has a very serious expression. What do you make of this portrait, in terms of symbols or deeper meaning? Curator: Indeed. It's a formal portrait, yet there's a fascinating array of symbols embedded within its visual language. Consider, for instance, the fur trim. In that era, fur didn't just signify warmth, it signified wealth, status, and even moral fiber. And, observe the book on the table. Is it merely a prop, or does it suggest something more about Seuter's identity, his values? Editor: I suppose the book symbolizes his learning, maybe his profession, since the inscription calls him a Doctor of Law, Jurium Doctor. It's like he's presenting himself to the world with these attributes on display. Curator: Precisely. It invites a reading that ties the sitter's image to wider cultural concepts of knowledge. And note the Latin inscription, connecting Seuter’s health not only to herbal remedies, but to salvation through Christ. What emotions do the overall presentation and combined signifiers elicit? Editor: An air of authority and perhaps the sitter's connection with something transcendent, something beyond the earthly. It is interesting how he has constructed this image for posterity! Curator: Precisely. The portrait speaks volumes about how individuals in that period wanted to be perceived and remembered. De Bry provides a compelling image that serves both as a personal marker and as a statement deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual beliefs. Editor: It’s amazing how much information and perspective can be gleaned from what seems like a simple portrait. It makes me wonder what symbols we unconsciously project today. Curator: Exactly. Examining this helps us decipher how visual symbols evolve and continue to shape our understanding of ourselves and each other.