Portret van Job Seaburne May 1847 - 1865

Franciscus Bernardus Waanders created this portrait of Job Seaburne May using graphite and charcoal. Waanders’ practice was shaped by the tumultuous period of Dutch history in the first half of the 19th century, encompassing the Napoleonic era. The portrait provides a glimpse into the societal values and the hierarchical structures of the Netherlands at this time. May's formal attire, laden with medals and epaulettes, speaks volumes about his status, and his achievements, reflecting the premium placed on military and civic duty. Waanders’ work provides a traditional representation of masculinity and power within a very specific historical context. While the portrait seems to celebrate May’s individual accomplishments, it can also be understood as an expression of national pride and identity. This portrait invites us to consider the complex interplay between individual identity, societal expectations, and the narratives of power that shape our understanding of history.