Artwork

Portrait of an officer

Portrait of an officer, by Vigor Boucquet, oil, 1650
Portrait of an officer, by Vigor Boucquet, oil, 1650

Portrait of an officer is an oil painting by the Flemish Baroque painting artist Vigor Boucquet. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of an Officer is a 17th-century oil painting by Flemish artist Vigor Boucquet, created around 1650.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a man in ornate military attire, holding a sword and gazing directly at the viewer. The level of detail in his uniform suggests he may be a high-ranking officer. His serious expression adds to the portrait's sense of gravitas.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Flemish Baroque style, the painting is characterized by somber realism. The artist's use of oil paint allows for rich, detailed textures, evident in the officer's intricate uniform and the yellowish-brown curtain that serves as the background.

History & Provenance

The painting is now part of the collection at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium. Boucquet, who was active in his hometown of Veurne, produced numerous portraits and religious works, including altarpieces for local churches.

Artist & collection

Artist

Vigor Boucquet

Vigor Boucquet or Victor Boucquet (Veurne, 1619 – Veurne, 1677) was a Flemish painter known for his portraits and paintings of biblical subjects.