Portret van Samuel Maresius 1654

This is Steven van Lamsweerde’s portrait of Samuel Maresius, made with engraving techniques. Note the oval frame encircling Maresius, inscribed with his name and titles. This shape, the oval, has been used for centuries to frame portraits, and in ancient times, it represented the cosmos, eternity, and the cycle of life. Think of the Renaissance, where the oval symbolized divine perfection and celestial harmony. The oval's cyclical nature mirrors the continual return and reinterpretation of symbols throughout history. Consider how classical motifs reappear in Renaissance art, then evolve again in the Baroque period, shifting in meaning, yet retaining their core emotional power. This portrait of Maresius, framed by an oval, becomes more than just an image; it's a microcosm reflecting humanity's enduring quest for understanding and meaning.