Portretten van de gebroeders De Wit, 1672 1672

Editor: This is "Portraits of the Brothers De Witt, 1672", by Gaspar Bouttats. It's an engraving. The density of line work gives it this incredibly formal feel, yet Johan de Witt’s eyes, they seem almost gentle. How do you interpret this work? Curator: You're right, there's a tension there. It's that Baroque theatricality grappling with the Dutch soberness, isn't it? Look at how the lettering practically dances around him! And in the background is the Hof van Holland. Consider the cultural context: 1672 was a year of upheaval for the Dutch Republic; the brothers De Witt were lynched. I find it almost tragic. The composition, the meticulously rendered details… It's almost like a eulogy, isn't it? Do you feel that way too? Editor: I see it. That building, and those formal clothes...they emphasize the status of De Witt and his connection to Dutch history. And maybe that's why his eyes appear kind--to counteract that rigid formality. Curator: Perhaps... And maybe Bouttats subtly tries to capture humanity, knowing the gruesome fate to come. The text in Latin below the image only further alludes to his great wisdom. One wonders what story the image tries to weave of this prominent figure! Editor: This conversation changed how I perceived it entirely! Curator: Mine too! It always excites me how artworks carry those layers of context and stories waiting to be discovered.