Portrait of an Officer (Mauritshuis)

About this work

This painting depicts a man dressed in armor, with a black leather suit adorned with gold studs and a matching belt. A white ruffled collar is visible under his chin, and a golden sash is draped over his right shoulder. He grasps a red plume-topped helmet with his left hand, while his right hand hangs loosely by his side. The man's attire and the presence of the helmet suggest that he is a military officer. The dark background of the painting draws attention to the subject, emphasizing his importance. For more information on the artist behind this portrait, look up Jan van Ravesteyn.