Artwork

Portrait of Aernout van Citters (1661-1718), son of Aernout van Citters and Christina de Brauw

Portrait of Aernout van Citters (1661-1718), son of Aernout van Citters and Christina de Brauw, by Simon Du Bois, oil, 1700
Portrait of Aernout van Citters (1661-1718), son of Aernout van Citters and Christina de Brauw, by Simon Du Bois, oil, 1700

Portrait of Aernout van Citters (1661-1718), son of Aernout van Citters and Christina de Brauw is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Simon Du Bois. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Aernout van Citters is a 1700 oil painting by Simon Du Bois, depicting the young son of Aernout van Citters and Christina de Brauw. The work is characterized by its formal, dark-toned setting, accentuating the subject's detailed attire and serious demeanor.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Aernout van Citters (1661-1718), is portrayed in youthful maturity, dressed in a black jacket with gold buttons and a white lace collar, conveying elegance and refinement. His serious expression suggests a emphasis on dignity and family lineage.

Technique & Style

Du Bois employed contrasting techniques to achieve depth: intricate rendering of the subject's curly hair, clothing textures, and lace, set against a subdued, dark background. This approach highlights the sitter while showcasing the artist's portraiture skill.

History & Provenance

Created in 1700 by Flemish-born, England-active painter Simon Du Bois (baptized 1632, died 1706), the painting is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, reflecting the artist's later career work in portraiture.

Context

Although created in 1700 during the tail end of the Dutch Golden Age, the painting reflects Du Bois's adaptation to English portraiture tastes, given his long tenure in England from 1685 until his death.

Legacy

The portrait stands as a representative example of Simon Du Bois's portraiture expertise, accessible to the public through the Rijksmuseum, though its broader influence or notable exhibitions are not highlighted in available information.

Artist & collection

Artist

Simon Du Bois

Simon Du Bois or Dubois (baptized 26 July 1632, Antwerp – buried 26 May 1706, London) ), was a portrait painter, of Flemish or Dutch origin, active in England from 1685 until his death.

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.