Portret van Hendrik van Brederode 1747 - 1759

Jacob Houbraken created this portrait of Hendrik van Brederode, a monochromatic engraving, showcasing a study in lines and forms. The oval frame draws our eyes immediately to the serious, thoughtful figure, his armour reflecting light in a pattern of intersecting lines and circles. Houbraken employs line as a tool of representation and abstraction; notice the detailed hatching that defines the contours of van Brederode's face and the metallic sheen of his armour. This meticulous approach doesn’t just depict a likeness; it also highlights the sitter’s status through the symbolic language of ornamentation and dress. The oval frame is mirrored by his ruff and the circular emblems on his shoulders, underscoring an enclosed and perhaps idealized view of the subject. Consider how these formal elements come together, creating a dialogue between representation and structure. The composition serves not only as a record, but as an active participant in shaping perceptions of power and identity during the Dutch Golden Age.