Zelfportret van Justus van der Nypoort 1680 - 1691

This is Justus van den Nijpoort's self-portrait. Note the scroll he holds. In the 17th century, such an object was a profound symbol, representing knowledge, authority, and artistic skill. The scroll echoes the ancient Roman tradition where scrolls contained laws and decrees. Over time, especially in the Renaissance, scrolls appeared in portraits of scholars and artists, like van den Nijpoort, symbolizing their intellectual prowess and dedication to their craft. Recall classical depictions of muses or philosophers, each holding a scroll, conveying wisdom and inspiration. But consider, too, the psychological weight. Van den Nijpoort's determined gaze, combined with this symbolic object, suggests an ambition to transcend time, securing his legacy. These aren't just surfaces and forms, but manifestations of our deepest desires, our collective drive to conquer mortality.