Portret van Stephanus Johannes van Geuns, versie A 1796

Reinier Vinkeles created this portrait of Stephanus Johannes van Geuns using etching techniques. The portrait presents a study in contrasts, primarily through its stark monochrome palette. The subject is encased in an oval frame, which creates a sense of formality, typical of portraiture of this era. Notice how the lines that define the profile are delicate yet precise, capturing the likeness of van Geuns with minimal detail. The textures, achieved through varied densities of etched lines, articulate the wig's curls, the fabric of the coat, and the subtle gradations of skin tone. This attention to texture enlivens the image, adding depth to what might otherwise be a flat representation. The composition adheres to a rigid structure, dividing the space into distinct zones, which invites us to consider the semiotic role of each element. The very act of framing, which is visually emphasized, suggests themes of containment, representation, and the creation of identity through artistic means.