Portret van Willem de Koning 1782

Curator: Right now we're looking at "Portret van Willem de Koning," made in 1782 by Pieter Willem van Megen. It’s held here at the Rijksmuseum and done in engraving. First impressions? Editor: I feel an unexpected tranquility from this piece. There's something almost gentle in the way he's framed in the window. The artist truly makes use of a soft gray tone that almost suggests a cool morning light, inviting contemplation more than a display of power. Curator: Framed, yes—literally! See how van Megen presents de Koning in what resembles a window or niche. This, along with the neoclassical style of the work, positions him as a figure of both intellect and perhaps... civic virtue? Observe the subtle cues, like the carefully rendered books nearby. Editor: It strikes me how different this feels compared to those grand, assertive portraits often associated with that period. This engraving is not as dynamic as what one expects of a painting of the 1700's. This feels subdued, almost hesitant, particularly in his rather relaxed hand gesture. Curator: Indeed, and notice the use of light and shadow—the artist utilizes delicate gradations to define his features. In formal portraits like these the point wasn’t always realism, right? It was a visual construction, presenting de Koning in a very specific light, shall we say? And there is, beneath the calm, a suggestion of someone thoughtful... and engaged. Editor: There’s something genuinely endearing about its understatement, and this makes it somehow far more resonant and modern. Not an arrogant man. Just someone going through life as himself. The portrait whispers more than shouts. It invites us to actually stop and think about his essence, if there ever was a way. Curator: And maybe, just maybe, encounter a little piece of ourselves, too? Editor: I’d like that thought very much, actually. Thank you for walking me through this very human take on Willem de Koning.