Portret van Francesco Maria I della Rovere 1660

Lucas Vorsterman the Younger created this portrait of Francesco Maria I della Rovere, using etching, sometime in the mid-17th century. The portrait presents a study in contrasts, between the textured background and the smooth rendering of the Duke’s face. Note how the fine, dense lines used to depict the natural elements create a backdrop that almost vibrates with energy. This is sharply juxtaposed with the controlled, softer lines used to define the Duke's features. The artist directs our focus firmly towards the Duke himself, imbuing the figure with a sense of calm authority. The structural dichotomy extends to the composition itself, dividing the image between the organic, wild nature on one side, and the cultivated, composed figure of the Duke on the other. The contrast between the formal attire of the Duke and the natural setting could be read as a commentary on man's relationship with nature.