Bebaarde man met hoed 1739 - 1810

This etching, titled "Bearded Man with Hat," was created by Johann Daniel Laurentz, an 18th-century German artist, during a time of significant social and political change. Laurentz’s rendering captures the nuances of his subject’s class and identity; in this case we see a figure of an older man whose beard and hat suggest a distinct social standing. The choice of etching as a medium is notable, as it allowed for detailed and reproducible images, and these could be disseminated widely. What does it mean to portray such a figure with dignity and detail during a period of immense social stratification? Perhaps the artist was interested in the intersection of personal identity and societal roles? Laurentz invites us to contemplate the lives and stories of individuals who, despite their circumstances, contribute to the rich tapestry of human existence.