Johan Fraser (1780-1843) 1835

This is Charles Howard Hodges' portrait of Johan Fraser, painted in the Netherlands, likely in the early 19th century, with oil on canvas. It reflects the social and cultural values of the Dutch elite during a period of significant political and economic change. The portrait is composed of visual codes that would have been easily readable at the time. Fraser is depicted as a man of status and intellect, evidenced by his formal attire, composed posture, and the inclusion of a bookshelf in the background. These elements signify wealth, education, and membership in a cultured society. The Dutch Republic was undergoing a period of transformation, grappling with the legacy of its colonial past. Portraits like this are useful historical resources, offering insights into the social structures of the time and the ways in which individuals sought to represent themselves within them. To understand this painting better, we can look to genealogical records, period publications, and institutional archives. Ultimately, its meaning is contingent on the specific social and institutional context in which it was produced and consumed.