Burgomaster Jan van Duren (1613–1687) 1663 - 1670

Gerard ter Borch painted this portrait of Burgomaster Jan van Duren on canvas, likely in the late 1660s or 70s. The painting gives us a glimpse into the world of Dutch civic leadership during the Golden Age. Ter Borch was a master of depicting the textures and fabrics of the wealthy merchant class, and this portrait is no exception. Van Duren's black cloak and the velvet table covering speak to his status and wealth. The overall aesthetic is one of restrained elegance, reflecting the values of Dutch society at the time. Unlike the flamboyant displays of aristocracy, Van Duren's portrait emphasizes his civic role. To truly understand this painting, we might turn to archival records, genealogical research, and studies of Dutch material culture. We can then appreciate how ter Borch captured not just an individual, but the spirit of an era and the values of a society.