Portret van Alexander Morus 1670 - 1719

This is Arnold Houbraken's "Portret van Alexander Morus," an engraving held at the Rijksmuseum. The dominant visual experience is one of intricate detail achieved through a network of fine lines. The composition centres on the figure of Morus, whose gaze meets ours, creating an immediate connection. Houbraken’s skill in using line to define form and texture is evident. The hatching and cross-hatching techniques create subtle tonal variations, giving depth to Morus’s face and clothing. Notice how the density of lines suggests shadow and volume, particularly in the folds of his garments and the contours of his face. This use of line not only describes physical appearance but also conveys a sense of the sitter’s character. The inscription beneath the portrait, "Talis erat Morus, quem fors infida peremit," adds another layer of meaning. This textual element operates semiotically, inviting us to interpret the visual representation of Morus in relation to his fate, prompting reflection on the interplay between image and text. Houbraken destabilizes the singular meaning of the portrait, transforming it into a site of ongoing interpretation and re-interpretation.