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Bartholomeus van der Helst

Portrait of a Gentleman

Artist

Bartholomeus van der Helst
Haarlem 1613 – Amsterdam 1670

Title

Portrait of a Gentleman

Date

1644

Materials

Oil on canvas

Dimensions

164.9 x 133.1 cm

Credits

Gift of Louis-Joseph Forget Estate, inv. 1918.186

Collection

Western Art

In this striking portrait, a gallant, self-assured man meets our gaze while leaning back comfortably in his chair, such that he fills the large canvas, creating a strong diagonal from his head to his left toe. His expensive black silk garments, the gilded clock and the dutiful water dog together form a carefully curated aura of luxury and stature. Protectively positioned beside its owner, the dog adds an endearing touch to the grandiose display.

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