Portret van Johan Evertsen 1642 - 1660

Johannes van Houten’s etching, “Portret van Johan Evertsen”, is a striking portrait of Johan Evertsen, a Dutch admiral. Created between 1642 and 1660, the artwork captures Evertsen in a moment of authority, with his hand resting on a staff and his gaze directly confronting the viewer. The image is a powerful example of Dutch Baroque portraiture, characterized by its realistic detail, focus on the sitter, and use of light and shadow. Evertsen's attire, a formal military uniform with a sash and sword, further emphasizes his position as a leader in the Dutch navy. The background, featuring a seascape with ships, reinforces this theme. This work is an excellent example of the Dutch Golden Age’s artistic output, which frequently celebrated the achievements of its leaders, contributing to the development of Dutch national identity.