Graaf Floris II van Holland 1586 - 1587

This is Hendrick Goltzius’s engraving, “Graaf Floris II van Holland,” created around 1558. The composition presents us with a full-length portrait of Graaf Floris II, standing with a sword in his left hand and a shield bearing a lion rampant in his right. The figure is highly stylized, almost ornamental, with detailed patterns adorning his clothing. Goltzius masterfully employs line and texture to define the figure and his attire. Note the contrasting textures, from the fur trim on his cloak to the intricate patterns on his tunic. These details aren’t merely decorative, they function as a form of visual language. The patterns create depth and volume, and the lines define the form of the figure. This engraving functions as a semiotic system, where the artist uses symbols and visual elements to convey meaning. The sword and shield, for example, symbolize power and protection, while the detailed attire speaks to the subject's status. The work invites us to consider how representation and symbolism intersect.