Portret van Johannes 't Serclaes 1628 - 1670

Pieter de Jode II created this engraving, "Portret van Johannes 't Serclaes", likely during the 17th century. The subject, framed within an oval border, is rendered with meticulous detail through the use of finely etched lines, a hallmark of engraving. The composition is dominated by the textures and forms that denote status and power. A striking ruff collar frames the face, drawing attention to the subject's gaze. Below, the armour reflects light, suggesting solidity and strength. De Jode's formal arrangement creates a visual hierarchy, emphasizing the subject's noble bearing. The use of engraving technique, with its reliance on line and tone, presents a world defined by clarity and order. This aesthetic, coupled with the subject's formal attire, conveys an image of authority rooted in the structures of 17th-century society. The portrait is thus not merely a likeness, but a carefully constructed representation of power and social standing.