Artwork
Portrait of Arent Franckensz van der Meer (?-1503), Lord of Papendrecht, nicknamed ‘malicious Aertje’
Portrait of Arent Franckensz van der Meer (?-1503), Lord of Papendrecht, nicknamed ‘malicious Aertje’ is an oil painting. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The work is an oil painting portraying a balding gentleman in a dark robe, seated with his hands folded.
About this work
Overview
The work is an oil painting portraying a balding gentleman in a dark robe, seated with his hands folded. His expression is serious, bordering on a frown, and a small red shield bearing a white motif is attached near his shoulder. The composition emphasizes the figure against a dark background, drawing attention to his face and hands.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is identified as Arent Franckensz van der Meer, who died in 1503 and held the title Lord of Papendrecht. Known by the nickname “malicious Aertje,” he is depicted with a ring in one hand, suggesting status or a personal emblem, while the shield may reference his heraldic identity.
Technique & Style
The artist employs a restrained palette, using a dark ground to heighten the contrast of light on the face and hands. Careful brushwork renders the texture of skin and fabric, and the subtle modeling of features reflects an early use of chiaroscuro to create a sense of volume and depth.
History & Provenance
The portrait is attributed to the late 15th‑early 16th century, aligning with the lifespan of its subject. No further details on its ownership or exhibition history are provided in the source material.
Artist & collection
