Portret van Anders Celsius

What it is

This is an engraved portrait of Anders Celsius, made by the printmaker Johann Gottlieb Boettger, likely in Leipzig between 1794 and 1825. It is held in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, acquired in 1905.

Why it matters

This portrait was made long after Celsius died, showing how his image continued to be reproduced and sold across Europe decades later. It demonstrates how scientists became public figures whose portraits were collected and traded.

Look closer

• Why might a printmaker in Leipzig create a portrait of a Swedish astronomer decades after his death?
• What does the oval frame and formal clothing suggest about how Celsius was meant to be remembered?
• Since this was made after Celsius's lifetime, how reliable do you think it is as a likeness?