Jacobus Zaffius 1611

Frans Hals's 1611 portrait of Jacobus Zaffius, a prominent citizen of Haarlem, exemplifies the artist's mastery of portraiture. This oil painting showcases Zaffius in a simple yet dignified manner, capturing his age and stature with meticulous detail. The sitter's weathered features, rendered with Hals's signature loose brushstrokes, convey a sense of realism and depth, while the fur-trimmed collar adds a touch of elegance. The inscription "ELIAS SVAE 77 AN:," indicating Zaffius's age, underscores the portrait's focus on individual identity. This portrait, currently housed at the Frans Hals Museum in Haarlem, offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent citizen during the Dutch Golden Age.