Portret van Ludolf Hiob 1710

This portrait of Ludolf Hiob was etched by Martin Bernigeroth in the late 17th or early 18th century. The print presents a formal depiction, contained within a sharply defined oval frame. Notice how the composition emphasizes a contrast between the intricate detail of Hiob’s wig and lace collar, and the smoother, more simplified rendering of his face. Bernigeroth uses line and texture to differentiate these elements, drawing the eye to the textures of status and intellect. The wig, a baroque symbol of power and fashion, surrounds his face like a halo, and the sharp lines of the lace add texture and visual complexity, contrasting with the relative simplicity of his face. The oval frame and the precise etching technique also contribute to a sense of order and control. This structured approach is typical of formal portraiture from this period, reflecting a desire to present a subject in a dignified and composed manner. The controlled lines and shapes serve not only to depict but also to construct a specific image of the sitter.