Portrait of John VIII, Count of Nassau-Siegen 1583 - 1638

This is a portrait of John VIII, Count of Nassau-Siegen, created by Anthony van Dyck in the 17th century with oil on canvas. While we consider this a work of fine art, look closely at the Count’s clothing. The metallic sheen on his doublet is not mere paint, but a depiction of a woven textile, replete with intricate design. This was a luxury good, involving specialized labor. The lace collar is another demonstration of skilled handwork. Van Dyck has not only represented the Count, but also the vast amount of labor and materials required to produce his status. The Count's attire is a crucial element of the painting. By rendering it meticulously, van Dyck invites us to consider the relationship between artistic skill and the skilled labor involved in creating material wealth. This portrait blurs the lines between fine art and craft, challenging us to consider their interwoven histories.