Portret van Jan Carel Josephus van Speijk c. 1831

This is an anonymous portrait of Jan Carel Josephus van Speijk, whose likeness has been captured in graphite. Van Speijk was a Dutch naval hero, who, in 1831, blew up his own ship to prevent it from falling into enemy hands during the Belgian Revolution. Though the artist is unknown, this image offers us insight into the construction of Dutch national identity during a time of political upheaval. The crisp lines and attention to detail in the uniform, signal Van Speijk's position of power. This image invites questions about how heroes are made and remembered. Van Speijk's story, though one of sacrifice, carries a burden. He acted in a time of national conflict and cemented his place in the canon of Dutch history. His portrait remains as a symbol of courage, but also raises questions about the cost of such heroism.