Artwork

Portrait of Jan van Laer (died 1638)

Portrait of Jan van Laer (died 1638) is an oil painting. It dates from 1690. Portrait of Jan van Laer is an oil painting depicting a solemn, bearded man set against a dark, plain background.

About this work

Technique & Style

The formal presentation adheres to the portrait genre, utilizing the traditional combination of oil and panel common to the period.

The Portrait of Jan van Laer is executed in oil paint applied to a panel support. Measuring 49.5 cm in height and 37 cm in width, the work is classified as a portrait depicting a man. Created in 1680, the piece is currently held within the Rijpenhofje collection at the Rijksmuseum.

The formal presentation adheres to the portrait genre, utilizing the traditional combination of oil and panel common to the period.

Overview

Portrait of Jan van Laer is an oil painting depicting a solemn, bearded man set against a dark, plain background. The subject, identified by name, is shown wearing a dark collar paired with a ruffled white neckpiece, with his thick white beard and mustache being notable features.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait focuses on Jan van Laer, whose serious expression is the central emotional cue. The simplicity of the background and the emphasis on the subject's attire suggest a representation of character or status rather than a narrative scene.

History & Provenance

Limited information is provided about the painting's history. The subject, Jan van Laer, is known to have died in 1638, but details regarding the artist, the painting's creation date, and its ownership history are not specified.