Reinier van Oldenbarnevelt, Adriaan van Dijk en Henricus Slatius, 1623 1623 - 1649

This etching, created anonymously in 1623, presents three figures within a defined, rectangular border. The composition emphasizes verticality, with the figures standing nearly shoulder to shoulder, each anchored by a walking stick. The lines are finely detailed, creating a striking contrast between the stark white paper and the densely etched areas that define the figures' clothing and faces. The formal arrangement hints at deeper meanings. The grouping of the figures, their similar stances, and the unifying use of walking sticks suggest a shared purpose or identity. The artist's decision to limit the background detail directs our attention to the figures themselves, inviting contemplation on their roles and relationships. The absence of color further simplifies the composition, focusing our attention on the interplay of light and shadow created by the etched lines. This formal choice underscores the stark realities of the subjects' lives, captured in this moment. This artwork provides a glimpse into the individuals it depicts and the broader social context in which it was created.