Portret van de onderwijzer Pieter Daniel Anslijn 1850 - 1865

This undated portrait of Pieter Daniel Anslijn presents a composition of subtle contrasts within a limited tonal range. The subject, positioned slightly off-center, appears seated, engaging the viewer with a direct gaze. Light and shadow play across his face and attire, creating depth and texture. Notice how the anonymous artist uses the rectangle format to frame the sitter in a way that emphasizes the structure of a society portrait. The lines of his suit create a series of geometric shapes, softened by the tonal variations that suggest form. His hand resting on a book adds both an element of narrative and balance to the composition, inviting us to think about the sitter’s profession as an educator, and how it shapes the social and cultural codes in this portrait. Ultimately, this work functions not only as a record of an individual but also as a site for exploring ideas about representation, social roles, and the structures that underpin our understanding of identity.