Portret van Majoor Hoyel Possibly 1831 - 1838

Jacob Joseph Eeckhout sketched this graphite drawing titled "Portret van Majoor Hoyel" at an unknown date. It is a portrait of Major Hoyel from the Netherlands, wearing a uniform, complete with epaulettes and a feathered hat, typical of the military attire of the time. This work provides insight into the social structures and values of the 19th century. Military figures held considerable status. The portrait then becomes a visual statement of power and authority, reflecting the conservative social norms of the time. Eeckhout's attention to detail in the uniform suggests a desire to accurately represent the subject's position and status within the military hierarchy. By examining the archives of the Dutch military and studying similar portraits from the period, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Major's role within Dutch society and how the institutions of the military helped shape artistic production and social identity during this period.