Bust of an Old Man Wearing a Fur Cap 1626 - 1636

Jan Lievens created this etching, "Bust of an Old Man Wearing a Fur Cap," in the 17th century, a period marked by the Dutch Republic's burgeoning global trade and its rigid social hierarchies. Lievens, a contemporary of Rembrandt, often explored themes of age and wisdom in his portraits. Here, the old man’s weathered face, framed by a lavish fur cap and turban, evokes a sense of both dignity and vulnerability. The sharp lines and contrasts in the etching emphasize the man's aged features, hinting at a life filled with experience. During this time, the visual representation of old men can be seen as a reflection on the value of experience. But we must ask, whose experiences were being valued? As the Dutch Golden Age was built on colonial exploits, we must consider how class and race intersect with the lives of those depicted and those doing the depicting. This piece challenges us to consider whose stories are told and remembered. It serves as a poignant commentary on the way societies selectively honor certain figures while overshadowing others.