H. Bernardus van Clairevaux c. 1579 - 1615

Editor: This is "H. Bernardus van Clairevaux," a print, an engraving to be exact, made by Dominicus Custos sometime between 1579 and 1615. It's at the Rijksmuseum now. The detail is just incredible, almost photographic despite being from so long ago. What do you find most striking about this particular portrait? Curator: It whispers tales, doesn’t it? I'm struck by the quiet intensity in his eyes. It’s as though Custos has captured not just a likeness, but a soul. Look at the lines etched around his eyes—they speak of wisdom hard-earned, of contemplative silence, and maybe just a little mischief. Does anyone else get the feeling this Bernard might be just about to crack a wry smile? What about you, does it speak to you? Editor: I see what you mean about the mischievousness, especially in contrast to his religious vestments and halo. It’s like he’s got a secret. What can you tell me about his holding the staff? Curator: The staff is fascinating. Symbolically, it shows he is in charge. In that period artists aimed to show the person was known, accomplished, maybe holy. Does that iconography affect your reading of his face? Editor: Absolutely! It layers on another level. Before I just saw an individual, now I also see a figure of authority, a leader. Curator: Precisely! It’s like looking at a play with layers upon layers of meaning revealed. Every mark seems deliberately placed to construct the persona of Saint Bernard, even those sneaky smile lines. Don’t you agree? Editor: I completely agree. I initially thought it was just a portrait, but now I see all these deliberate choices that create such a compelling figure, very thought provoking.