Artwork

Portrait of Matthys van de Merwede, Lord of Clootwyck, Poet in Dordrecht (Mathias de Merwede de Clootwyck)

Portrait of Matthys van de Merwede, Lord of Clootwyck, Poet in Dordrecht (Mathias de Merwede de Clootwyck) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Arnoud van Halen. It dates from 1716 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Technique & Style

The composition focuses on the sitter, Matthys van de Merwede, adhering to the conventions of portraiture from the early eighteenth century.

Executed in 1716 by Arnoud van Halen, this portrait is an oil painting on a copper support. The work is characterized by its small scale, measuring 11 cm in height and 9.5 cm in width. As a formal portrait, the piece utilizes the smooth, non-absorbent surface of the copper plate, a medium that typically allows for fine detail and a luminous finish in the application of oil pigments.

The composition focuses on the sitter, Matthys van de Merwede, adhering to the conventions of portraiture from the early eighteenth century.

History & Provenance

Arnoud van Halen executed this portrait on copper in 1716. The work depicts Matthys van de Merwede, a poet and lord from Dordrecht. Historical records indicate that the painting was once owned by its creator, van Halen, before passing into the collection of Michiel de Roode. It is currently held by the Rijksmuseum.

The portrait is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. According to the Wikidata record, its location is the Rijksmuseum, and it has been associated with two prior owners: Arnoud van Halen and Michiel de Roode. No accession number, inventory code, or exhibition history is recorded in the available sources.

The painting, executed in 1716 on copper, is documented as part of the museum's holdings, though specific cataloguing details such as an accession identifier are not provided. Likewise, no loans, displays, or past exhibitions are mentioned in the sourced material.

Legacy

The portrait of Matthys van de Merwede, Lord of Clootwyck, painted by Arnoud van Halen in 1716, is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, ensuring its preservation and public access. Its inclusion in the museum's holdings underscores its historical significance within Dutch portraiture of the early 18th century. The work's presence in a major national collection has contributed to renewed scholarly attention on van Halen's artistic output, particularly his role in the Dordrecht school of painting.

The painting's attribution and display at the Rijksmuseum have reinforced the reputation of Mathias de Merwede as a notable literary figure from Dordrecht, linking his cultural identity to visual representation in the period. This connection has influenced interpretations of regional identity in Dutch art history, particularly in studies of poets who also held noble titles. Its legacy is further reflected in its role as a reference point in exhibitions and research on 18th-century Dutch portraiture, though its influence remains more localized within academic discourse than widespread public recognition.

Overview

This portrait on copper, created by Arnoud van Halen in 1716, depicts Matthys van de Merwede, Lord of Clootwyck. It is now held at the Rijksmuseum.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a poet from Dordrecht, is shown with a serious expression, gazing to his left. His attire, including a hat and buttoned coat, is rendered in detail, suggesting a dignified individual.