Portret van Bernhard Erasmus von Deroy 1775 - 1855

This is Paul Tassaert’s portrait of Bernhard Erasmus von Deroy. Its monochromatic scheme of grays and blacks, achieved through delicate engraving, immediately evokes a sense of formality. Notice how Tassaert uses a circular frame, setting Deroy against a subtly shaded backdrop. This shape contains the subject and focuses our attention on the details of his face and attire. The linear precision in the depiction of Deroy's uniform creates a contrast with the softer modeling of his features, highlighting the textures and materials of his clothing while giving a sense of depth to his character. This portrait operates within a symbolic system where clothing and rank signify status, and where the circular form can be seen to isolate Deroy in a class and privilege which frames notions of identity and representation. In examining Tassaert’s engraving, we observe how the formal elements converge to shape our perception of power and presence. We find that the lasting power of this image resides in its formal structure and the signs and codes it encodes.