Portret van Willem Bilderdijk aan zijn schrijftafel 1797 - 1836

Philippus Velijn created this portrait of Willem Bilderdijk at his writing table, using etching and line engraving. Velijn made this portrait in the early 19th century, which was a time of significant social and political upheaval in Europe. Consider how the identity of Willem Bilderdijk, as a prominent intellectual and writer, would have been shaped by these events. Bilderdijk was known for his conservative views and opposition to the liberal ideas that were spreading throughout Europe at the time. He was a figure who lived according to his principles, and had a strong sense of national identity. The image shows us a man in deep thought. The way he leans on his hand, with books nearby, creates an image of intellectual depth and perhaps a certain weariness. The portrait invites us to reflect on the role of intellectuals in times of change, and how personal beliefs can shape one's identity and work.