Zuren, Jan van (1517-1591) publisher, burgomaster of Haarlem 1590

Curator: Hendrick Goltzius crafted this engraving around 1590. It's a portrait of Jan van Zuren, who was, as the inscription tells us, 71 years old. He was a publisher and burgomaster of Haarlem. Editor: The image immediately strikes me as both authoritative and surprisingly tender. The meticulous rendering of his features suggests importance, while his gentle gaze and the slight smile convey a warmth, don’t you think? Curator: Yes, there’s a certain kindness that emanates from the eyes, a feeling emphasized, I believe, by his attire. The large fur collar suggests status, certainly, but also protection and comfort. Look closely at how the collar and hair contrast with his aged but sturdy face. Editor: Exactly, that fur speaks volumes about the social structures of the time, class and wealth as cornerstones of the 16th-century society. How power and success are inscribed on the body. We read a very clear visual language that defines his person. I do also wonder about the inscription at the bottom; the letters form dense graphic signs and are very suggestive of the context of printing to which he belonged. Curator: Good point, these details invite further questions about his contributions to civic life in Haarlem, as his presence indicates deep historical roots in that area. Moreover, the positioning of his hands, which seems to suggest his engagement with printed documents, enhances the image. I believe this imagery represents knowledge and influence. It indicates something specific to that time: reading practices linked to male authority, knowledge and prestige. Editor: The choice of the material, black ink on paper also has a specific tone; it lends itself very well to capturing textures, especially that of the fur, and gives him an imposing figure; a monumental status emphasized by the text below the effigy that functions almost like an epitaph. It’s as though we are not only looking at him, but reflecting on him. Curator: Absolutely, this engraving offers a layered reading, touching upon the themes of aging, authority, and cultural memory all captured through careful artistry. It encapsulates both individual likeness and broader societal values of the late 16th century. Editor: Seeing the way that image immortalizes him also makes one wonder what stories that smile could reveal about his contributions to society and what changes he saw during his lifetime. An artifact as a symbol of an individual and his era, it is a fascinating perspective.