Portret van Jakob Böhme 1659 - 1731

This engraving portrays Jakob Böhme, made by Pieter van Gunst. The portrait is encircled by an oval frame filled with religious inscriptions and dates. The circular form is important. From antiquity, the circle has represented eternity and cyclical time. Here, it suggests Böhme's ideas resonate beyond his earthly existence. The words act as a *memoria technica*, a memory device for those familiar with his theological concepts, embedding his image within a tradition of spiritual knowledge. Such framing devices are not unique and can be seen in Ancient Roman portraiture, for example. Böhme's calm gaze invites introspection. The inscription speaks of wisdom, humility, and spiritual victory, aligning him with saintly virtues. These concepts are not linear; they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts. This potent combination of image and text engages viewers, drawing them into Böhme's world of mystical contemplation.