Portret van een man 1696 - 1727

This is Matthijs Pool’s small portrait of a man, made with etching. The tight composition focuses primarily on the face and upper torso of the subject. Light and shadow are used sparingly, defining shape and volume within the close confines of the piece. The etching technique allows for fine, delicate lines that meticulously capture the details of the man’s face, his curly hair, and the soft fabric of his clothing. Despite the small scale, there's a formality to the work, reminiscent of larger painted portraits of the era, yet the reduced size brings an intimacy, almost as if the artist seeks a more immediate connection with the viewer. The textures and patterns created by the etching invite a close inspection, where the seemingly simple lines reveal a complex layering and detailing that engages the viewer in a visual dialogue with the work. It is a careful study in miniature.