Portret van Willem van Oostenrijk Possibly 1880 - 1884

This is a portrait of Willem van Oostenrijk, made by an anonymous artist using watercolor and graphite on paper. The artist has expertly employed the qualities of watercolor to capture the textures and patterns of Willem’s elaborate attire. Note the delicate brushwork used to depict the fur trim, the intricate embroidery on his robe, and the subtle shading that gives depth to the fabrics. It’s easy to imagine the skilled labor that went into these garments; the portrait gives us a window into the world of courtly fashion, which was deeply embedded in social and economic hierarchies. But consider, too, the labor involved in the portrait itself. The artist would have mixed pigments, carefully applied washes, and meticulously rendered details. By focusing on these material aspects, we gain a deeper appreciation for the artistic skill involved. It challenges conventional art history which often overlooks the role of craft and making in the creation of art.