Portret van hoogleraar Evert Jan Thomassen a Thuessink 1824 - 1849

This is a portrait of Professor Evert Jan Thomassen a Thuessink, captured in ink by Carel Frederik Curtenius Bentinck. Observe the subject's attire; the medal with a cross dangling on his chest, a stark symbol of status and affiliation. This emblem, reminiscent of the Teutonic Order's cross, connects him to a history steeped in religious and martial power. Yet, such symbols are never static. Consider how the cross, once a symbol of sacrifice, has been re-purposed through time, adorning conquerors and dignitaries alike. The subconscious allure of such insignia is palpable; they tap into our collective memory, evoking the grandeur and authority of past epochs, engaging viewers on a deeply psychological level. These symbols have evolved and re-emerged throughout history, demonstrating how cultural memory shapes our interpretation.