Portret van Franciscus Gomarus 1654

This portrait of Franciscus Gomarus, an engraving by Steven van Lamsweerde made in the 17th century, presents us with a study in intellectual austerity. Encapsulated within an oval frame, the professor is encircled by his academic titles. Note the prominent use of Latin, the language of scholars, a conscious nod to classical antiquity and the continuity of knowledge. The clean-shaven face and the severe black cap contrast sharply with the elaborate ruff. This juxtaposition is not merely decorative; it's a symbolic tension. The ruff, with its intricate pleats, echoes similar neckwear seen across Europe during the Renaissance, yet it also recalls the stark white collars of religious reformers. This symbol carries a weighty history, reappearing through time. Consider the evolution from the protective neck armour of knights to status symbols of aristocrats, the image of the ‘ruff’ has been passed down through generations. The image evokes feelings of introspection, and invites us to consider how our own cultural symbols shape our understanding of the world.