Artwork

Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (1662-1718)

Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (1662-1718), by Hendrik van den Bosch, oil
Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (1662-1718), by Hendrik van den Bosch, oil

Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (1662-1718) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Hendrik van den Bosch. It is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created in 1775 by Hendrik van den Bosch, portrays Christoffel van Swoll, a figure of apparent prominence, who lived from 1662 to 1718. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

Christoffel van Swoll is depicted in a formal, dark attire with a lace collar, holding a rolled document, conveying an air of seriousness and importance. The inclusion of a crest below his name further emphasizes his status.

Technique & Style

The painting features a somber, dark background that directs focus solely on the subject. Van den Bosch's use of oil paint captures the textures of Van Swoll's curly, shoulder-length hair and the intricacies of his fancy coat.

History & Provenance

Despite the subject's lifespan (1662-1718), the portrait was painted in 1775 by Hendrik van den Bosch, suggesting it was not a contemporary depiction. The Rijksmuseum currently holds the painting in its collection.

Context

The late creation of the portrait relative to the subject's lifetime implies it might have been commissioned for historical, familial, or commemorative reasons, though specific context is not provided.

Legacy

While the painting provides insight into 18th-century portraiture styles and the representation of social status, its broader impact or influence on art history is not notably distinguished in available information.

Artist & collection

Artist

Hendrik van den Bosch

Hendrik van den Bosch made formal portraits of Dutch East India Company leaders. His brush captured men like Dirk van Cloon and Diederik van Durven, each shown in rich oil on copper, keeping their rank visible in lace…

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.