Portrait of Quintijn Symons c. 1634 - 1635

Anthony van Dyck painted this portrait of Quintijn Symons using oil on canvas. It’s tempting to look at this image solely in terms of its aesthetic qualities, the elegance of its composition and the lifelike rendering of the figure. But consider for a moment the labor that went into its making. Think of the linen canvas, woven and primed, providing a receptive surface for the artist’s brushstrokes. Then there are the pigments, ground from minerals and mixed with oils. And of course, the ruff around Symons’s neck. This isn't just any lace; these elaborate collars were a highly regulated industry, each fold a testament to the skills of lacemakers. These artisans sold their wares in a competitive market, underscoring the links between art, fashion, and economic exchange. Looking closely, we can appreciate the artistry in this painting, and also the broader network of hands and materials that brought it into being. This challenges traditional notions of artistic genius, drawing our attention to a world of craft and commerce.