Johan Boudaen Courten (1635-1716), Lord of St Laurens, Schellach and Popkensburg. Councillor of Middelburg and Director of the East India Company 1668

Cornelis Janssens van Ceulen painted this portrait of Johan Boudaen Courten sometime in the 17th or early 18th century. The painting has a dark and subdued palette with a strong emphasis on the textures of fabric and paper. Consider how the artist uses composition to convey social status. Johan is positioned in a way that emphasizes his connection to exploration and global trade. Notice how the rolled map and globe place him within a context of geographical knowledge and mercantile power. These objects are not merely decorative; they are semiotic devices that communicate Johan's identity as a director of the East India Company. The artist employs a contrast between light and shadow, drawing our attention to the face, the delicate lace collar, and the meticulously rendered details of the map. The very structure of this portrait and the precise rendering of each object serve to reinforce a narrative of control, knowledge and authority. These are not just aesthetic choices, but also elements that reflect and reinforce specific cultural values.