Portret van Ludovicus Timon Pielat before 1752

This is David Coster's "Portret van Ludovicus Timon Pielat," an engraving measuring 350 by 270 mm. The composition is dominated by the subject's figure, framed within an oval border. The subtle texture of the engraving captures the subject's features and the rich fabric of his robes, creating a contrast with the smooth planes of his face. Note how Coster balances the subject's direct gaze with the intricate details of the surrounding text and ornamentation. The formal structure suggests a careful encoding of social and theological meanings. Here, semiotics reveals how clothing, books, and textual frames all contribute to the sitter's identity. Notice how the artist creates the image through line and tone, exploring how visual elements construct meaning. Through form and structure Coster engages with the philosophical concerns of representation and identity. The artwork prompts us to consider how portraits communicate ideas and values through visual language.