Portret van Karl August von Hardenberg 1818 - 1832

Anton Wachsmann created this portrait of Karl August von Hardenberg through engraving techniques. Hardenberg was a prominent Prussian statesman during the Napoleonic era, a period of significant social and political upheaval in Europe. Consider how portraits of political figures often serve to project an image of authority and intellect. Hardenberg is adorned with medals and decorations, symbols of status and power. Wachsmann’s image of Hardenberg reinforces traditional representations of male authority. However, it's important to reflect on the social context in which this portrait was made. What kind of power did Hardenberg represent? What social classes or groups might have been excluded or oppressed by his policies? Whose stories are missing from this portrait? This image serves as a reminder to critically examine the ways in which power and privilege are visually constructed and reinforced through art.