Portret van de goudsmid Quintin van der Gracht, op 50-jarige leeftijd 1584

This engraving of Quintin van der Gracht, a goldsmith from Antwerp, was made by Wierix around 1584. Antwerp, during this time, was a hub of commerce and culture. The portrait captures van der Gracht at the age of 50, holding a book open to a landscape drawing. The image speaks to the intersection of class and identity in the 16th century. Van der Gracht's profession as a goldsmith afforded him the means to commission such a portrait, signaling his status and wealth. The inclusion of the landscape drawing might suggest his refined taste, aligning him with intellectual circles. Portraits like this served as a kind of historical record, preserving the likeness and legacy of individuals within their communities. The French inscription at the bottom translates to a paternal message, indicating that these portraits will remain with his children, who he implores to remember the virtuous path he has taken. It’s a poignant reminder of the personal and familial dimensions woven into the social fabric of the time.