Portret van Cornelis de Man c. 1710

Caspar Netscher created this monochromatic drawing, *Portret van Cornelis de Man*, sometime in the 17th century. The Dutch Golden Age saw an explosion of portraiture, reflecting the values of a mercantile society where individual success and status were celebrated. Yet, this portrait offers a quieter narrative. Cornelis de Man, adorned in a flowing robe and lace collar, exudes an air of relaxed confidence, characteristic of the Dutch elites of his time. His gaze, though direct, carries a hint of introspection. Netscher, who spent formative years in the Hague, became known for intimate, domestic scenes that frequently involved women. Here, though, he presents a male sitter who subtly challenges traditional representations of masculinity. The flowing lines of Cornelis’s robe and hair soften his image, suggesting a man of intellect and refinement rather than overt power. In doing so, Netscher offers a glimpse into the shifting identities of the period. This drawing, with its delicate washes and subtle nuances, serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between identity, representation, and societal expectations.