Portret van Simon Gorter 1857 - 1909

Curator: This drawing is "Portret van Simon Gorter" from circa 1857 to 1909, currently residing here at the Rijksmuseum and made by Emrik & Binger. Editor: The cool reserve of this portrait is striking, especially given the intricacy achieved with what appears to be simply graphite on paper. There’s a palpable sense of the sitter's self-possession. Curator: Absolutely. Examining the lithographic process gives insight to production: multiples of these portraits spread Simon Gorter's image through society, contributing to and reflecting his social standing. It moves beyond simple representation. Editor: So, more than just a likeness, it functions as a social artifact. How do institutions like the Rijksmuseum shape our view of individuals like Gorter through art like this? What did Gorter’s social circle perceive about the image, especially because there are multiple copies available? Curator: Good question. Also note the materiality here –the graphite itself. Mass production made the materials needed widely available. Its humble status contrasts the formality of the portrait; what impact would that have on the sitter? Editor: The way the sharp lines render the lapels is quite remarkable, while the rendering of the hair, especially around the face, speaks of an attention to detail. Do we know what context determined the materials they used? Curator: Likely driven by market access; pencils, graphite sticks and prepared paper became widespread. Also the social conventions that determine the visual markers and tropes present, even here. And a fascinating interplay of commerce and representation! Editor: Indeed. It’s thought-provoking how much the distribution channels influence the image. What appeared like a man defined becomes a product defined. Curator: Precisely! Seeing the work reveals so much about not only the man, Simon Gorter, but also the complex factors shaping the material context in which his image was consumed and understood by the people in the Netherlands at the time. Editor: Exactly. This drawing allows us to explore the portrait tradition of the Netherlands in that era and really consider how access and availability transformed production and image-making in 19th Century Holland.