Portret van Joan Cornelis van der Hoop 1832 - 1876

Carel Christiaan Antony Last created this print, titled "Portret van Joan Cornelis van der Hoop", using etching and engraving techniques. The portrait's composition is anchored by a central figure, subtly offset to engage with the space around him, a conventional representation of power. The stark contrast between light and shadow emphasizes the textures of the sitter's coat and face, creating a dynamic surface. Note the interplay between the sharp lines defining his features and the softer gradations in the background, a semiotic marker, perhaps to destabilize traditional notions of portraiture. The inclusion of a sculptural bust and draped curtain adds layers of meaning. The bust might symbolize intellectual legacy while the curtain suggests a theatrical staging of identity. These elements invite us to consider how the print negotiates representation, history, and the construction of the self.