Portret van Franciscus Junius (I) 1657 - 1707

Curator: Here we have a 17th-century engraving from the Rijksmuseum's collection. Hendrik Bary created this portrait of Franciscus Junius (I). What's your initial take? Editor: There's a somberness that strikes me immediately, a weightiness. It’s a striking image of Junius that is beautifully balanced even given all the activity happening in the image. Curator: Yes, the image is busy, and to address that feeling the artist encased his portrait of the notable scholar, theologian, and translator, within an elaborate, allegorical frame. It really situates Junius within his world. Editor: The frame, of course, draws the eye. There are allusions to mortality - those small skulls atop the columns, for example and representations of female virtues. How did viewers receive these visual tropes at that time? Curator: Given his status in Dutch society at the time and the wide distribution of such prints, this was meant to convey to the audience the importance of Junius and perhaps serve as a didactic piece about religious perseverance during the reformation and subsequent period. Editor: The engraver makes such adept use of hatching and cross-hatching to achieve a great sense of depth and texture. Look at the fur trim on his coat, so luxurious but a stark contrast to the darkness looming around him. Is this intended as visual hyperbole? Curator: That Baroque theatricality, full of allegory and symbolism, absolutely highlights the struggles Junius faced and perhaps also the challenges the Reformed Church endured during its establishment, including times of exile. His clothing does create an interesting contrast that draws out the overall drama of the print. Editor: Looking closely at the bottom of the print, the Latin inscription alludes to reason and persuasion and the engraved text on the artwork certainly contextualizes it to give clues as to Junius’ important contribution in helping establish the Reformed Church during his lifetime. It does underscore the central importance of religion and learning during that period. Curator: Precisely. By studying its composition and context, this print offers an intimate glimpse into Junius’ life and beliefs, resonating with political and religious ideologies. Editor: It’s interesting how the technical aspects and aesthetic choices coalesce to embody the complexities of Junius’ role during a pivotal time in history.