Portret van Cornelis de Witt 1749 - 1759

Jacob Houbraken created this portrait of Cornelis de Witt using etching and engraving techniques. De Witt was a significant political figure in the Dutch Republic during the 17th century, a period marked by intense power struggles and social upheaval. This portrait captures de Witt's status through his composed demeanor, dress, and the formal presentation of the engraving. Yet, we must also consider the complexities of identity and power at play here. De Witt was later murdered in a politically motivated attack, and his story serves as a reminder of the precarity of power. Houbraken, working later in the 18th century, presents us with a composed image of a man whose life ended violently amidst political turmoil. This adds a layer of emotional depth to the artwork, inviting us to reflect on the human cost of political conflict and the fragility of even the most powerful figures. The portrait invites us to contemplate the intersection of personal fate and broader historical forces.