Portret van Lodewijk Ernst, hertog van Brunswijk-Wolfenbüttel 1738 - 1792

Editor: Standing before us is Aert Schouman's "Portrait of Lodewijk Ernst, Duke of Brunswick-Wolfenbuttel," created sometime between 1738 and 1792. It’s a drawing that really commands your attention, even in its muted tones. It makes me feel like I'm face to face with someone of immense power. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, for starters, I feel the weight of history! It's interesting how Schouman manages to convey not just the Duke’s physical likeness, but also something of his presence. Notice the textures. There's a velvety softness to the way he renders the Duke’s clothing and that wig is amazing!. But the gaze feels so stern. Does that resonate with you at all? Editor: It definitely does! The detail in his garments and awards, especially given this must be either charcoal or watercolor or an engraving, that contrast between detail and his imposing gaze gives him such gravity. Curator: Precisely! Schouman really captures the Duke’s self-importance. You have to imagine, too, the conventions of portraiture at that time. It's a dance between accurate representation and the creation of an idealised image to project power and authority. He’s not smiling. Were they ever? What do you suppose that means, that stony face? Editor: Perhaps it's to show stoicism and strength, less vulnerability. Maybe he wanted to give the impression of the seriousness that comes with leadership. Curator: Yes! It's a visual performance! It speaks volumes about the subject’s role and status within that baroque society. I also keep thinking that everything depicted is symbolic in one way or another and contributes to constructing that perception of nobility. That dark plume and its mysterious origins adds drama. But it must be exhausting playing such a role all the time! Editor: It's like the whole composition is geared to conveying nobility! That definitely adds another layer to my understanding of portraiture! Curator: And for me too! It's those fresh eyes that truly bring life to a painting.