Portret van Anthonie Schets, Baron van Grobbendonck 1628

This is Barend van Someren’s engraving, “Portret van Anthonie Schets, Baron van Grobbendonck.” Produced in the Dutch Republic, the portrait reflects the rigid social hierarchies of the 17th century. Anthonie Schets, a nobleman, is captured at age 64, his status proclaimed through his elaborate attire and the inscription that frames him. His fashion, down to the extravagant ruff, speaks to wealth, power, and belonging to the upper echelons of society. But portraits like these aren’t just about documenting a likeness. They reinforce the power structures of the time. They reflect the cultural values placed on lineage and social position. While van Someren’s skill is evident, the engraving also serves as a reminder of the limited representation within the art world, where the wealthy and powerful controlled the narrative. Consider how such images shaped perceptions of identity and worth, and how they continue to influence our understanding of history.