Portret van Gijsbert Carel Rutger Reinier van Brienen van Ramerus 1817

This is a portrait of Gijsbert Carel Rutger Reinier van Brienen van Ramerus, made by Abraham Lion Zeelander. The engraving presents a study in contrasts, with a carefully rendered figure set against a stark white background. The subject is framed by an oval border, concentrating the viewer's gaze on his presence. The artist uses a range of techniques, including delicate hatching and cross-hatching, to model the sitter's features. The details of his uniform, such as the ornate embellishments and medals, are rendered with meticulous accuracy, reflecting the sitter's social standing. The composition of the portrait is balanced, with the sitter positioned centrally. The linear precision in Zeelander’s engraving introduces a sense of formality. It adheres to the conventions of portraiture of the time. Yet, this work uses controlled details to explore themes of identity, power, and representation.