Portrait of a Man

Portrait of a Man is a prime example of the booming Dutch Republic economy during the 17^th century as it became an established trade center for ports. Done in traditional Dutch style, the composition overall is dark, mainly composed of black and brown gradations. The unidentified man who is center-framed, displays his wealthy status, standing prideful in formal attire. Just beyond the man’s left shoulder is a window peering into his land, which has a few barns and a windmill. The ominous, rolling clouds - a motif in Dutch painting – add a dramatic effect and echo the lighting in the interior space. With the use of chiaroscuro, the effect of high contrast between light and shadow, Ravesteyn highlights the figure’s soft-featured face and hands, despite facing opposite of the window. This naturalistic style draws the viewer to the man’s direct gaze. With slight bags under his eyes and the visible white hairs of his beard and by his temple, these features confirm the age of the man which is reiterated with the golden Latin text painted to the left of the figure’s head: AETATIS SVE SS ANNO 1620- (AT THE AGE OF 55 IN THE YEAR 1620-). There is a liveliness brought by his slight smile and rosy cheeks, as he stands confidently wielding an ornately designed cane in one hand and black gloves in the other. His status is also represented by his front metal brooch at the bottom of his vest and the black-brimmed hat sitting on the red tablecloth.