Portret van Robert Douglas 1628 - 1670

Editor: This engraving, "Portret van Robert Douglas" by Pieter de (II) Jode, dates from between 1628 and 1670. It's a fairly formal portrait, yet there's something about his eyes...almost a twinkle! How do you interpret this work, seeing it here at the Rijksmuseum? Curator: Ah, a twinkle indeed! Or perhaps it's the knowing gaze of a man who's seen a bit of the world – or several battles. What I find fascinating is the interplay between the meticulous detail of the engraving – just look at the texture in that drape! – and the artist's attempt to capture something of Douglas's inner spirit. He wasn't just any Baron, you know? Editor: So, it's more than just a record, a historical document? Curator: Precisely! It's trying to get at the man behind the armor, the wit behind the gaze. Notice, for example, how the oval frame softens the image, creating intimacy despite the formal setting and clothing? Do you see that balance being struck? Editor: I do now that you mention it. And I didn’t initially notice all the detail of the armor and patterned fabric! What an effect all the line work gives to the final image. Curator: Exactly! Think about what they would think of Instagram and today’s filters! All kidding aside, I imagine folks were so flattered to be “preserved” by an engraver. It feels like a delicate balance between fact and feeling. It speaks of ambition, power, and the subtle art of capturing a soul on paper. Editor: I’ll never look at an old engraving the same way. Curator: Excellent, perhaps there's some of that 'twinkle' rubbing off on you!