Staande jongen, van achteren gezien Possibly 1648 - 1649

Editor: Here we have "Standing Boy, Seen from the Back," a pencil drawing possibly from 1648 or 1649, by Harmen ter Borch. I find the simplicity of the sketch really charming, almost vulnerable in its depiction of youth. What stands out to you? Curator: The boy's averted gaze is potent, isn't it? Throughout history, depicting a figure from behind invites the viewer to project their own feelings, memories, and anxieties. What is he looking at, or perhaps, running from? Ter Borch masterfully employs the averted gaze, prompting the viewer to become psychologically complicit in the scene, injecting personal narrative. Editor: So you see the averted gaze as a kind of invitation? Does his attire contribute to that at all? Curator: Absolutely. The style of dress situates him firmly in the Dutch Golden Age. But more significantly, his anonymity allows him to stand as a more universal figure of youth contemplating… something. Ter Borch cleverly taps into archetypal anxieties and curiosities about adolescence. What is that large hat hiding? What sort of secret is he burdened by? The boy’s image resonates deeply as a reminder of personal emotional struggles of growing up. Editor: I never considered how much the back view implicates the viewer! I see it now. It becomes less about the boy specifically, and more about… all boys, in a way? Curator: Precisely. That’s where the image transcends its immediate context and becomes truly resonant and accessible. I wonder what the boy is staring at… Editor: It’s definitely made me see portraiture from a totally different angle. I really appreciate that, thank you!