Portret van Karel, graaf van Liechtenstein-Castelcorn 1680 - 1691

Justus van den Nijpoort created this portrait of Karel, Count of Liechtenstein-Castelcorn, in the 17th century using etching. This print encapsulates the enduring relationship between aristocratic power and the Catholic Church in the Holy Roman Empire. Karel was more than just a count; he was also a bishop, as evidenced by his clerical garb and the cross he holds. The elaborate coat-of-arms below further reinforces his noble lineage and status. Made during the Baroque period, this image employs complex symbolism and ornate details to convey authority. Consider the Latin inscriptions framing the portrait, a mark of erudition and prestige. The dolphins, lions, and sailing ships point to maritime power and trade, elements crucial to the economic and political influence of the Liechtenstein family. To fully appreciate this piece, a historian might delve into the records of the Liechtenstein family or the archives of the Catholic Church. Such research would reveal the intricate web of social, religious, and political forces that shaped Karel's world.