Portret van Van Houten 1797

"Portret van Van Houten", a 1797 portrait by Johannes Cornelis Mertens, captures the likeness of an unknown individual in a detailed yet intimate way. The sitter wears a fashionable hat and coat, with a refined cravat, indicative of the era's sartorial style. Executed in a realistic manner, the artwork exemplifies Mertens' talent for portraiture, showcasing his ability to convey subtle nuances of expression and character. Currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, the small-scale drawing is a testament to the enduring power of portraiture as a means of preserving individual identity.