Portret van Willem van der Pot 1768

Reinier Vinkeles captured Willem van der Pot in this print made sometime in the late 18th century. The Dutch Republic was a society of stark class divisions. Van der Pot's identity as an elite member of Dutch society is clear from the trappings of wealth in the portrait. The trappings of wealth include his powdered wig, fine clothing, and the accoutrements of learning like the writing quill, ink pot, and paper. What’s more, he wears a self-satisfied expression, further alluding to the fact that he belongs to the class of people who have the time and resources to be painted. The very existence of this portrait is a statement about Van der Pot’s position, in relation to those who were not deemed worthy of such commemoration. As you look, consider how portraiture plays a role in solidifying social hierarchies, reminding us of who is seen and who is not.