Two Unidentified Young Men c. 1660
romboutverhulst
3d sculpting
rounded shape
sculpture
sculptural image
unrealistic statue
3d shape
curved shape
watercolour illustration
graphite
statue
This ivory relief sculpture, created by Rombout Verhulst around 1660, portrays two unidentified young men. The piece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, showcases the artist's skill in rendering detail and texture in the figures' clothing and hairstyles. The high-relief technique used by Verhulst lends a sense of realism to the subjects, creating a captivating and intimate portrait. Ivory carving was a popular art form in the 17th century, with artists like Verhulst pushing the boundaries of the medium and contributing to its enduring legacy.
Comments
There is a striking resemblance between the features of these two young men. They are probably brothers. The oldest (at right) is possibly a soldier or a member of a militia company. The gesture he makes with his fingers is curious. It may represent a measure, in which case he is advocating temperance. The jutting out of the young men’s elbows carved in high relief is artistically daring.
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