Portret van James Stuart, hertog van Richmond 1708 - 1780

Jacob Houbraken created this portrait of James Stuart, Duke of Richmond, using engraving, a medium known for its precision. The circular frame immediately draws the eye, focusing our attention on the Duke's composed visage. The fine lines and stippling give form to his features and attire. Houbraken’s mastery lies in his use of linear patterns to articulate form and texture. Look closely at the Duke’s hair, where the density and direction of lines create volume and movement, contrasting with the uniform background. These subtle gradations articulate depth within the two-dimensional plane, animating the sitter beyond mere representation. The circular frame is not merely decorative, it functions as a structural device, isolating the Duke from any spatial context. This geometric boundary invites us to ponder the limits of representation and how the construction of an image shapes our understanding of the subject. Houbraken invites us to consider the semiotics of portraiture.