Artwork

Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (Swol, Zwol), Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies

Portrait of Christoffel van Swoll (Swol, Zwol), Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Hendrik van den Bosch. It dates from 1713 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

History & Provenance

While the source material confirms the painting's location within the Rijksmuseum, it does not provide a specific inventory or accession number for the object.

The portrait of Christoffel van Swoll, painted by Hendrik van den Bosch in 1713, was created in Batavia and executed in oil on panel. It entered the collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it remains on display. The work was commissioned to depict the Governor-General of the Dutch East Indies and is classified as a portrait painting.

The portrait of Christoffel van Swoll is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The artwork, executed in oil on panel, was created in Batavia in 1713 by Hendrik van den Bosch. While the source material confirms the painting's location within the Rijksmuseum, it does not provide a specific inventory or accession number for the object.

Additionally, no exhibition history is recorded in the available documentation, leaving the work's display record unverified by the provided texts.

Overview

Hendrik van den Bosch’s oil portrait, executed in 1713, presents Christoffel van Swoll, who served as Governor‑General of the Dutch East Indies. The work belongs to the Rijksmuseum’s collection and exemplifies early‑18th‑century Dutch portraiture of high‑ranking officials.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, Christoffel van Swoll, is shown in formal attire appropriate to his colonial office, holding a wooden cane that underscores his authority. The inclusion of a coat of arms on the left side signals his noble status and the official nature of his role within the Dutch East India Company.

Technique & Style

Van den Bosch employs a noticeable impasto, especially on the face and hands, creating a tactile surface that catches light. Subtle chiaroscuro models the features, while the rich dark coat with silver buttons and embroidered cuffs conveys the luxurious dress of the period.

Portrait of Hendrik Swaardecroon (Hendrick Zwaardecroon), Governor General of the Dutch East Indies, Hendrik van den Bosch

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Artist & collection

Artist

Hendrik van den Bosch

Hendrik van den Bosch made formal portraits of Dutch East India Company leaders. His brush captured men like Dirk van Cloon and Diederik van Durven, each shown in rich oil on copper, keeping their rank visible in lace…