Bust of a Soldier c. 1678 - 1722

Adriaen van der Werff created this small wooden sculpture, Bust of a Soldier, with remarkable detail. It is a work of art that draws you in with its intricate texture and form, despite its small size. The sculpture is of a smiling soldier, with a helmet on his head and draped with cloth. Van der Werff’s ability to convey emotion through carved wood is evident in the soldier's cheerful expression. Note the detailed carving of the helmet. The subtle curves and folds of the cloth create a lively contrast with the solid, geometric base. The artist's careful attention to detail invites you to consider the relationship between the soldier's personal expression and the rigid structures of military life. The base anchors the figure, providing a stable foundation that accentuates the dynamic qualities of the carved form above. The formal elements work together to create a compelling commentary on identity, representation, and the intersection of individual emotion within structured social roles.