Portret van Johannes Paulinus Olivecrants op 55-jarige leeftijd 1688

Richard Collin created this print of Johannes Paulinus Olivecrants at the age of 55, a testament to the fashion and formality of its time. The composition is structured around an oval portrait, framed by inscriptions and decorative elements, all meticulously rendered with fine lines. The subject, Olivecrants, is presented with an emphasis on his elaborate wig and draped clothing, indicative of status and intellect. Note how Collin uses the texture of the engraving to create depth and shadow, particularly in the curls of the wig and the folds of the fabric, which contrasts with the smoothness of Olivecrants’ face. This attention to detail serves not merely to depict likeness but to convey ideas about identity and social standing, engaging with the semiotic language of portraiture. The Latin inscriptions that surround the image enhance this sense of formality, imbuing the portrait with a sense of classical learning and authority. The enduring appeal lies in its ability to capture a moment in time, inviting us to consider the values and visual codes that shaped the early modern world.