Johan Hulshout (1623–1687) 1665 - 1675

Pieter van Slingelandt painted this portrait of Johan Hulshout on canvas in the Dutch Republic, sometime between 1660 and 1691. The Dutch Golden Age saw an explosion of portraiture as the merchant class rose in power and wealth. Consider the details: the sitter’s lace collar, the black doublet, and the suggestion of a garden in the background. Hulshout’s clothes and setting indicate his status, but his slightly awkward pose and the softness of his face suggest something of his humanity. Van Slingelandt's portraits were highly sought after. He was known for his ability to capture the textures of fabrics with almost photographic realism. The effect is mesmerizing. This piece not only reflects the Dutch Republic’s economic prosperity and social values but also captures the intersection of identity and representation, reminding us of the personal stories behind historical figures.