Portrait of Jeremias van Riemsdijk, Governor-General of the Dutch East India Company 1775 - 1777

Franciscus Josephus Fricot created this portrait of Jeremias van Riemsdijk, Governor-General of the Dutch East India Company, using oil on canvas. The portrait stands as a potent symbol of the Dutch colonial era, a time marked by exploration, commerce, and exploitation. Riemsdijk's stern visage and formal attire reflect the authority and power associated with his role. His identity as a Governor-General is inextricably linked to the history of Dutch colonialism in Asia, and raises questions about the legacy of those who profited from the exploitation of resources and people. The inclusion of his family's coat of arms underscores his lineage and elevated status within the colonial hierarchy. Portraits like this encourage us to critically examine the narratives and power dynamics embedded within them, prompting reflections on the complexities of history, identity, and representation. The somber tones and the weighty presence of the figure evoke a sense of introspection, inviting us to confront the legacies of colonialism and its enduring impact on our world.