Karel van Mander c. 17th century

Editor: This is a portrait of Karel van Mander by Claes Pietersz Lastman. It’s a very intricate engraving, almost sculptural in its detail. What strikes you most about its composition? Curator: The most compelling aspect is the structural interplay between the portrait and its surrounding frame. The oval containing van Mander is itself heavily ornamented with swans and grotesque masks. Editor: So, it's the contrast between the subject and the ornamentation that you find most interesting? Curator: Precisely. The frame and its accoutrements seem to vie for attention with the portrait, creating a tension that underscores the artifice inherent in portraiture itself. What do you make of the lines of text bordering the frame? Editor: It is a reminder that portraits are not mere depictions but carefully constructed images. Thanks, I didn't see the power of the picture frame initially.