Portret van hoogleraar Wilhelmus Boonaarts (Fabius) before 1600

This engraved portrait, "Portret van hoogleraar Wilhelmus Boonaarts (Fabius)," depicts Wilhelmus Boonaarts, a prominent figure in the academic world, and was created by Wierix, a renowned Dutch artist. The engraving is part of the Rijksmuseum collection. The image captures Boonaarts in a formal pose, with his hand resting on a skull, a reminder of mortality. The detail and skill of Wierix's engraving are evident in the intricate depiction of Boonaarts' attire and the subtle shading that creates a sense of depth. The Latin inscription at the bottom, “PERCELEBRIS FABII VVLTVS EN ASPICE VEROS QUI CLARO INGENIO FAMAE RESPONDET ET ARTS,” highlights Boonaarts' achievements and underscores his status as a respected scholar. This powerful engraving stands as a testament to both Wierix's artistic mastery and Boonaarts' significant contributions to the academic sphere.