Artwork

Robert Henrik Rehbinder (1777-1841)

Robert Henrik Rehbinder (1777-1841), by Johan Erik Lindh
Robert Henrik Rehbinder (1777-1841), by Johan Erik Lindh

Robert Henrik Rehbinder (1777-1841) is a drawing by Johan Erik Lindh. It is held in the collection of the Helsinki City Museum.

About this work

Overview

This portrait depicts Robert Henrik Rehbinder, a man in his 50s or 60s, rendered in a style characterized by fine lines, shading, and textured brushwork. The overall composition focuses attention on the subject's face and ceremonial attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Robert Henrik Rehbinder (1777-1841), is portrayed wearing formal, dark attire adorned with a distinctive red-and-black sash, multiple medals, and stars. These elements suggest the depiction of a figure of importance, with the regalia indicating potential military, civic, or honorary distinctions.

Technique & Style

The painting features meticulous detailing through fine lines and nuanced shading, imparting a textured quality. The dark, subdued background serves to accentuate the subject's facial expression and the intricacy of his decorations, drawing the viewer's eye inward.

History & Provenance

Limited information is provided regarding the painting's historical context or provenance. The subject's dates (1777-1841) suggest the portrait was created during the early 19th century, though the artist remains unspecified in the given details.

Context

The style and attention to detail in the portrait align with early 19th-century European portraiture traditions, which often emphasized the subject's status through attire and awards. The use of cross-hatching techniques (as hinted by the suggestion to explore this style further) was common during this period for achieving depth and texture.

Artist & collection

Artist

Johan Erik Lindh

Johan Erik Lindh filled small sheets with soft pencil portraits of Finnish families in the early 1800s.

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