Artwork
Gellius de Bouma
Gellius de Bouma is an ink print by the Baroque artist Cornelis Visscher. It dates from 1646 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Cornelis Visscher’s 1646 print presents a seated gentleman, identified as Gellius de Bouma. Executed as a combined engraving and etching, the image is rendered in a stark chiaroscuro that isolates the figure against a deep, featureless background, emphasizing his solemn demeanor.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is depicted with a long white beard, a ruffled collar, and a dark robe adorned with a decorative button. His right hand rests calmly on his lap while the left holds a folded piece of fabric, gestures that convey composure and a measured authority typical of 17th‑century portraiture.
Technique & Style
Visscher employs both engraving’s precise line work and etching’s softer tonal washes, allowing for fine detailing of facial features and the texture of the clothing. The contrast between the illuminated figure and the surrounding darkness reflects the Baroque interest in dramatic lighting and psychological presence.
History & Provenance
Created in 1646, the print is part of Visscher’s broader oeuvre of portrait prints that documented notable Dutch individuals. While specific ownership records are limited, the work has been cited in catalogues of Dutch printmaking and remains a reference point for studies of mid‑17th‑century portrait conventions.
Artist & collection
