Portret van Theodorus Hendrik Mac Gillavry 1897

Jan Veth created this portrait of Theodorus Hendrik Mac Gillavry in the Netherlands, using graphite on paper. Veth was known for his portraits of intellectuals and prominent figures. Here, he uses a realistic style to capture Mac Gillavry's likeness, emphasizing his professional status through his suit and tie. The work reflects the cultural values of the Dutch upper class at the turn of the century, a society in which education and professional achievement were highly prized. The Rijksmuseum's acquisition of this drawing also tells a story about institutional collecting practices, as the museum played a crucial role in defining Dutch national identity. By displaying such works, institutions shape public perceptions of cultural significance. To fully appreciate this drawing, one might consult biographical sources on both the artist and sitter, as well as institutional records of the Rijksmuseum. Art, you see, is always embedded in a network of social and institutional relations.