Jacobus I (1556-1625), de latere koning van Engeland, als kind 1574 - 1598

Arnold van Bronckorst painted this tiny portrait of Jacobus I, the later King of England, likely during the late 16th century. The painting's small scale creates an intimate viewing experience, drawing us into the face of the young royal. The oval composition, defined by a metallic rim, frames a softly illuminated face, contrasted against a dark background and costume. Bronckorst's technique focuses on the play of light and shadow to model form. The ruffled collar stands out, a complex shape articulated with delicate brushwork. This precise rendering of texture and detail invites questions about representation and identity. As a child, James is presented with an eye to his future role. The semiotic codes of clothing – the dark hat and gold-buttoned doublet – speak to status and power, yet are juxtaposed with his youthful features. The artwork challenges fixed notions of portraiture. It uses the miniature format to intensify the focus on the individual, yet situates this individual within broader structures of class and expectation. The painting functions as a site where personal and political narratives converge.