Heer staand met zijn handen in zijn zij 1660s

This drawing, made by Gesina ter Borch, presents a figure rendered in delicate brown ink, a study in the dynamism of line and form. The subject, a man, is captured mid-gesture, his hands assertively placed on his hips, which immediately suggests a sense of defiance or self-assurance. The artist uses line to create a structural framework, defining the contours of the figure’s clothing with tight hatching. Note the textures and folds in the fabric, which convey depth and volume. The composition is open, the figure set against a blank ground which isolates him, thereby enhancing his dramatic presence. Ter Borch’s decision to leave the background empty focuses our attention on the details of his attire and posture. In the context of 17th-century portraiture, this approach offers a modern sensibility. Rather than aiming for a realistic depiction, it explores ideas around identity and representation. The minimal use of color further emphasizes the linear structure, encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork's underlying structure.