Artwork
Portrait of Joan Maetsuyker (1606-78), Governor general (1653-78)
Portrait of Joan Maetsuyker (1606-78), Governor general (1653-78) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jacob Jansz. Coeman. It is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. Portrait of Joan Maetsuyker (1606-78) is an oil-on-canvas painting created by Jacob Jansz.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of Joan Maetsuyker (1606-78) is an oil-on-canvas painting created by Jacob Jansz. Coeman in 1775. It depicts Joan Maetsuyker, who served as Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies from 1653 to 1678. The work is characterized by its Rococo style and is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Joan Maetsuyker, is portrayed in a somber and contemplative manner, reflecting his position of authority. His attire, a black coat with a white collar, signifies simplicity and seriousness, while the coat of arms above his name emphasizes his noble status.
Technique & Style
Coeman employed the Rococo style, evident in the subtle play of light on the subject's face, set against a dark, muted background. This contrast highlights the subject's features, creating a sense of depth and solemnity.
History & Provenance
Painted in 1775 by Jacob Jansz. Coeman, the portrait is a later representation of Maetsuyker, who passed away in 1678. The painting is now held in the Rijksmuseum's collection, though the exact date of its acquisition is not specified here.
Context
Given the 1775 creation date, over a century after Maetsuyker's tenure, the portrait may reflect a nostalgic or historical commemoration of Dutch colonial leadership during the 17th century.
Legacy
As a portrait of a significant colonial figure, it contributes to the historical record of the Dutch East Indies' governance. Its artistic value lies in showcasing Coeman's adaptation of the Rococo style for portraiture, though the artist's overall impact and the painting's influence on subsequent art are not detailed in the provided sources.
Artist & collection
Artist
Jacob Jansz. Coeman (Amsterdam? ca 1632- 9 April 1676, Batavia, Dutch East Indies) was a Dutch painter of portraits. Coeman worked in the style of Thomas de Keyser. In 1655 he married Hester Wils, either from Haarlem or…
