Portretten van Hendrik Soukens, Roukens en Frans van Eynden 1757 - 1819

This drawing of Hendrik Soukens, Roukens, and Frans van Eynden was made by Roeland van Eynden. Dominating the drawing is the artist himself, painting at his easel. His gaze is directed towards us, holding the symbolic tools of his craft. This self-portrait in the act of creation is a statement, a declaration of identity and purpose. Consider the image of the artist at work. We can trace it back through time. The artist is both creator and craftsman, merging intellectual and manual labor. This archetype appears in ancient Egyptian tomb paintings, where artisans are depicted meticulously crafting objects for the afterlife. It reappears in medieval illuminated manuscripts, where monks painstakingly illustrated sacred texts. The image of the artist evolves, imbued with new meanings. In the Renaissance, the artist transforms into a divinely inspired genius. In the Romantic era, the artist becomes a solitary figure, grappling with the sublime forces of nature and emotion. The psychological weight of this symbol is profound. It speaks to our collective desire to create, to leave our mark on the world. The symbols will resurface. In time, the artist will continue to reflect and refract.