Portret van een oude man met een boek 1587 - 1591

Hendrick Goltzius created this small portrait of an old man with a book, using engraving techniques during the late 16th or early 17th century. Goltzius lived during the Dutch Golden Age, a period marked by immense cultural and economic growth for the Netherlands. The image presents a contemplative, elderly man, holding a book. His expression is one of wisdom and perhaps a hint of world-weariness. The book signifies knowledge, and the choice to depict an older man may reflect the cultural values of the time. Older men were often seen as embodiments of experience and knowledge. Goltzius’s choice to portray this man elevates the status of scholars and intellectuals, who might have been overshadowed by other societal figures, like merchants or military leaders. The engraving, with its intricate details, is a testament to Goltzius's skill and the value placed on artistic craftsmanship during this era. It serves as a poignant reflection on the quiet power of intellect and the significance of honoring wisdom.