Portræt af Jean Labadie 1622 - 1678

Anna Maria van Schurman made this tiny oil on copper portrait of Jean Labadie sometime in the 17th century. Schurman was a Dutch polymath, highly educated in languages, philosophy and the arts and sciences. This portrait of Labadie, a French Jesuit priest turned Protestant pastor, speaks to the intellectual and religious debates of the Dutch Golden Age. The formal qualities of the work--its small scale, the sitter's dark clothing, the plain background--create a sense of intimacy. The fashion is typical of the period, but Labadie's intense gaze hints at his passionate nature. To understand this portrait, we must investigate the religious and intellectual climate of the Dutch Republic, a place known for relative tolerance. The relationship between artist and sitter is also important: Schurman became a follower of Labadie's teachings later in life, joining his religious community. Art historical research into these connections helps us appreciate the social networks that gave meaning to art in its own time.