Portret van Wiesken Matthijs Possibly 1660 - 1661

This is Moses ter Borch's chalk drawing, "Portret van Wiesken Matthijs," held at the Rijksmuseum. The subdued palette of blacks, greys and whites invites us into a quiet, contemplative space. The composition is dominated by the subject's face and head covering, which occupies most of the frame, drawing our attention to the sitter's closed eyes and serene expression. Ter Borch’s use of light and shadow models the form, creating a soft, almost dreamlike quality. The artist destabilizes conventional portraiture through its stark simplicity. The lines, though delicate, suggest more than just a likeness; the drawing seems to capture a fleeting moment of introspection. The very absence of color directs us to consider the underlying structure and emotional depth of the piece. It prompts questions about representation and the artist's intentions, reflecting broader philosophical concerns about perception and existence. The drawing leaves us to consider the interplay between presence and absence, prompting us to consider how such formal choices shape our understanding and emotional response.