Artwork

Portrait of Johannes Wesenhagen (1743-1803)

Portrait of Johannes Wesenhagen (1743-1803), by Antoine Maucourt, ivory, 1791
Portrait of Johannes Wesenhagen (1743-1803), by Antoine Maucourt, ivory, 1791

Portrait of Johannes Wesenhagen (1743-1803) is an ivory painting by the Rococo painting artist Antoine Maucourt. It dates from 1791 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

This portrait, carved on ivory, depicts Johannes Wesenhagen and was created by Antoine Maucourt in 1791. It is an oval-shaped work surrounded by a gold leaf frame with leafy designs.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait shows Johannes Wesenhagen sitting still, wearing a dark coat and white cravat, with a serious expression on his pale face. His hands rest on his lap against a plain black background.

Technique & Style

The artist achieved a lifelike quality through soft shading, particularly in the subject's face. The use of ivory as the medium is notable, as it is uncommon for portraits.

History & Provenance

The portrait is now held at the Rijksmuseum, indicating its significance and preservation.

Artist & collection

Artist

Antoine Maucourt

This 18th-century artist carved delicate portraits on ivory. One tiny slice of life is the 1781 *Portrait of Johannes Wesenhagen*—a man’s face, three inches wide, etched in fine lines. Look closer and you’ll see the…

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.