Portret van de onderwijzer Bernardus Franciscus Suerman 1858

This 1858 lithograph by Belgian artist Benoit Taurel depicts Bernardus Franciscus Suerman, a teacher. The artwork is a portrait, a popular genre in the 19th century. The subject is presented in a formal pose, wearing a robe and a white collar, emphasizing his profession. This print, now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, exemplifies the tradition of creating lasting visual records of individuals. The work is rendered in black and white, a style common to lithography. The detail of the face and clothing suggests a focus on realism, reflecting the artistic trends of the time.