Artwork
Julius Beyma
Julius Beyma is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jonas Suyderhoff. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1650 engraving by Jonas Suyderhoff presents a monochrome portrait of Julius Beyma. Rendered in black ink, the image centers a solemn-faced man framed within an oval border, his features highlighted against an unadorned background that directs attention to his visage and surrounding inscription.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter, identified by Latin titles encircling the portrait, is Julius Beyma, whose professional roles are recorded in the surrounding text. The dignified expression, combined with the formal attire—a broad dark hat and a stark white ruff—conveys the status and gravitas typical of 17th‑century civic portraiture.
Technique & Style
Suyderhoff employs delicate, intersecting lines to achieve tonal variation, a method known as cross‑hatching. This fine linear work renders the texture of the ruff, the sheen of the hat, and the subtle modeling of the face, while the plain backdrop maintains visual focus on the figure.
History & Provenance
Created in the mid‑17th century, the print reflects the period’s practice of commemorating notable individuals through engraved portraiture. Though specific ownership records are scarce, the work remains a representative example of Dutch engraving and the dissemination of personal likenesses during that era.
Artist & collection
