Portret van Jan Gerritsz. van Bronckhorst 1649 - 1662

This print of Jan Gerritsz. van Bronckhorst was made by Pieter de Bailliu, probably in the Netherlands in the mid-17th century. It's an engraving, a relatively cheap medium which allowed for the wide circulation of images. Bronckhorst was a painter, particularly known for his glass paintings, a popular form in the Netherlands at the time. This print, like many others of the period, would have served to advertise his skills to potential clients and solidify his artistic reputation. Note how the inscription below the image describes him as a master of figures, and praises his skill as a draughtsman. These kinds of images are incredibly useful resources for the art historian. Prints such as this played a crucial role in shaping artistic reputations in the 17th century. They tell us how artists wished to be seen, and provide valuable insights into the networks of artistic patronage and influence that shaped the art world of the time.