Portret van Johann Brendel 1725

Editor: We are looking at “Portret van Johann Brendel,” a 1725 engraving on paper now at the Rijksmuseum. It is pretty detailed given the technique. There's almost a solemn quality to it. What do you see in this piece? Curator: What I see is time swirling around the subject, Herr Brendel. The crispness of the engraving versus the implied softness of his cloak and hair – it is a tension, right? He is a man pinned to the page, immortalized. The book… he isn't just holding it, is he? He’s presenting it, maybe offering a key to his soul, or simply flaunting his intellectualism. And the curtain in the background; is it hiding or revealing? Editor: That’s a great question. The curtain, coupled with his pose and serious demeanor makes me think this is all about projecting authority, particularly spiritual authority, with him being a Feld-Prediger. Curator: Authority, definitely. But don't you think there's a whisper of something more intimate here? Consider how the artist handles the light, the shadow. It isn't just about power. There is a searching, a probing of the man behind the clerical robes. Almost daring you to question, or perhaps even relate. Editor: That’s true! It’s as if we’re getting a glimpse beyond the official portrait, like catching him off guard for a moment. Curator: Exactly. Which brings me back to time… He is frozen but somehow still moving; we still discuss him 300 years on. Art continues when it makes you pause and keeps you thinking! Editor: So true. It’s remarkable to find these layers hidden in a Baroque engraving!