Portret van Werner zur Mühlen 1679

This is Herman Hendrik Quiter’s portrait of Werner zur Mühlen. Although undated, it is rendered with a delicate play of light and shadow through a detailed engraving technique. The composition immediately draws us into the oval frame, a structure that emphasizes the subject's face and ornate attire. Notice how the artist balances the dark background with the illuminated features of the sitter, creating depth and a sense of presence. The lines, precise yet fluid, highlight the texture of the hair and the lace collar, bringing a tactile quality to the printed image. This piece is not merely a representation; it's an exercise in semiotics. The formal elements—the framing, the contrast, the textures—act as signs, conveying status and character. The portrait invites us to consider how appearances are constructed and what they communicate within a social context. The very act of framing here is not just decorative; it is a signifier of the social role.