Reproductie van een kostuumprent en één met Johan van Duvenvoorde door Hendrick Goltzius before 1880

This is a reproduction of a costume print, including one of Johan van Duvenvoorde. The original drawing was created by Hendrick Goltzius. Prints like these played an important role in shaping social identities and the construction of noble personas in the Netherlands. Costume books showcased the attire of different regions and social classes, contributing to a sense of regional and national identity, while also reinforcing social hierarchies. The engravings capture the visual codes of status, from the elaborate clothing to the weaponry, reflecting the militaristic culture and the importance of noblemen within Dutch society. These images were not just documentation; they were actively involved in the performance of identity, influencing how individuals presented themselves and how they were perceived by others. Understanding the social conditions and institutional contexts in which such art was produced helps us to see it as more than just aesthetic objects; they are cultural artifacts that reflect and shape the values, beliefs, and power structures of their time. Resources in social history can help us to understand this artwork better.