Portret van François Valentijn 1724

Jacob Houbraken’s 1724 engraving, “Portret van François Valentijn,” depicts François Valentijn, a Dutch minister and author, in a circular frame, surrounded by figures representing his travels to the East Indies. The work is an example of 18th-century portraiture, showcasing the subject in a formal setting with allegorical figures highlighting his achievements. Houbraken, a prominent engraver of the period, skillfully rendered the details of Valentijn's attire and facial features, conveying his erudition and importance. This piece, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, offers a glimpse into the life and legacy of François Valentijn, a significant figure in Dutch colonial history and literature.