Journal des Luxus und der Moden 1786, Band I, T. 6 1786

This is an engraving from 1786 by Friedrich Justin Bertuch, taken from the ‘Journal des Luxus und der Moden’. The dominant visual experience is one of elaborate ornamentation set against a muted palette. The figure's pose, rendered in profile, emphasizes the intricate gold trim on his dark blue coat, drawing the eye along the contours of his form. Bertuch’s attention to detail invites us to consider the semiotic function of fashion in the late 18th century. The engraving doesn't just depict clothing; it presents a codified system of signs reflecting social status, taste, and cultural values. The figure's tight breeches and powdered wig speak to a preoccupation with controlled, artificial elegance. The sword is not merely an accessory but a symbol of power. Ultimately, the artwork functions as a mirror reflecting the opulence and artifice of its time, but also as a document through which we can analyze the visual language of social identity.