Artwork

Hans Wachtmeister af Johannishus, 1641-1714

Hans Wachtmeister af Johannishus, 1641-1714, by David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl, oil, 1696
Hans Wachtmeister af Johannishus, 1641-1714, by David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl, oil, 1696

Hans Wachtmeister af Johannishus, 1641-1714 is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl. It dates from 1696 and is held in the collection of the Nationalmuseum.

About this work

Overview

David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl’s 1696 oil portrait presents the Swedish nobleman Hans Wachtmeister (1641‑1714). The composition centers the sitter seated in a chair, his posture dignified and his attire richly rendered, against a subdued dark backdrop that suggests an interior space with a distant opening.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait captures Wachtmeister in a red robe trimmed with white fur, a symbol of status and military distinction. His dark, curled hair, white lace collar, and the blue‑gold object he holds convey both personal wealth and his role within the Swedish aristocracy of the late 17th century.

Technique & Style

Ehrenstrahl employs a refined chiaroscuro, allowing the illuminated figure to emerge from the shadowed background. The painter’s handling of texture—fur trim, lace, and the patterned fabric—demonstrates meticulous brushwork, while the subtle modeling of flesh and the reflective surfaces convey a realistic yet formal portraiture typical of Swedish Baroque.

History & Provenance

Created in 1696, the painting has remained in Sweden’s public collections and is currently displayed at the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm. Its preservation within the national institution reflects its historical value as a representation of a prominent naval commander and member of the Swedish nobility.

Artist & collection

Nationalmuseum

Museum

Nationalmuseum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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