Admiral Jacob Binkes c. 1640 - 1677

Editor: This is Nicolaes Maes’ portrait of Admiral Jacob Binkes, dating from about 1640 to 1677. The oil paint gives him an almost luminous quality, but also renders him a bit…stern. He seems like a man of action, gazing seriously towards the viewer. What stands out to you? Curator: Well, I immediately see the fascinating tension between individual identity and the symbols of power embedded within this portrait. Notice how the armor and firearm present him as a man of war, conforming to expectations of his role. Yet, observe the fine details—the lace at his collar, the soft curls of his hair. These humanizing features hint at a personality that exists beyond military prowess. What kind of psychological impression do you gather? Editor: I suppose it suggests he is not *just* a warrior. Perhaps there is sensitivity hidden beneath that strong exterior? I am curious about the ship faintly seen in the background... Curator: The ship reinforces his identity as a naval commander, but more symbolically, the sea often represents the subconscious. So its presence could mean that there are many unexplored depths within him that even the portrait cannot fully reveal. Note how the oval format itself mimics the form of a mirror reflecting not just his likeness, but a curated image. Do you believe this man is defined by history or is there an element beyond cultural identifiers that survives to our present day? Editor: That is a really intriguing way of thinking about it, actually. The symbols are important but so is the humanity represented. It makes you wonder how he would define himself outside of being an Admiral. Curator: Precisely! Consider what it means to hold power and simultaneously be bound by its expectations, by the cultural moment. I believe his story lingers because he is an individual facing expectations within the painting and a representative of the cultural symbolism. Editor: That is an amazing reading. Thank you! I will never look at a portrait quite the same way again.