Jan van Broechoven, Burgomaster of Leiden 1578

Editor: So, this is Anton Wierix II's engraving, "Jan van Broechoven, Burgomaster of Leiden." The sheer detail is incredible. I'm struck by the formality of the portrait, and how it’s framed by such elaborate ornamentation. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious representation of power? Curator: It’s more than just power, isn’t it? It’s about legacy. Look at the intricate border—almost like a family tree blooming around him, intertwining with his coat of arms. He’s not just a man; he’s an institution. What do you make of the Latin inscription? Does it hint at anything beyond the image? Editor: I think that it has something to do with aging, and the work that he has done. Curator: Indeed! It adds a layer of reflection. It is a reminder that even in the most meticulously crafted images, time marches on, transforming both the subject and our understanding of them. Editor: That’s a fresh perspective. I hadn’t thought about how the inscription interacts with the image itself. Curator: The best art always has layers, doesn't it?