Beardless man in a fur cloak and cap: bust 1631 - 1668

Balthazar Moncornet's "Beardless Man in a Fur Cloak and Cap: Bust" is an engraving made in the 17th century, now held at the Rijksmuseum. The stark contrasts of light and shadow, achieved through delicate hatching, immediately draw the eye. The subject, framed by an oval border, is presented in rich detail, emphasizing texture and form. The formal composition is a play of structured lines and organic shapes, inviting us to decode its cultural implications. The fur cloak and cap, rendered with meticulous precision, suggest status and intellect. The oval frame, reminiscent of classical portraiture, contains the image. This evokes a sense of historical continuity, yet the gaze averted, suggesting a turn away from established norms. Moncornet's work challenges fixed meanings, prompting us to consider how the visual elements of attire and framing engage with societal values and individual expression.