Portret van Mattheus de Haan 1702 - 1749

This print portrays Mattheus de Haan, and was made by Isaac Ledeboer in the Netherlands during the 18th century. De Haan, identified here as Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies, is depicted with symbols of power and status. Prints like this played an important role in shaping public perception, especially for individuals far removed from the centers of colonial administration. The portrait presents de Haan as a figure of authority and refinement. His clothing, the sword, and the rolled document he holds all contribute to this image. The Dutch East India Company was a powerful entity, and portraits of its key figures helped to legitimize its authority. By studying archival documents, company records, and period publications, historians can gain a deeper understanding of how these images functioned within the broader context of Dutch colonial history. This portrait is a reminder that art is always embedded in specific social and institutional contexts.