Views of the Netherlands & Belgium · 18th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
for age. Paper shows light toning and minor handling marks. Some faint foxing in the margins, but no tears or repairs. Visible plate marks add depth and authenticity.
Dutch Advocates of Holland – Adriaan van der Goes and Johan van Oldenbarnevelt
This finely detailed pair of 18th-century copper engravings presents the portraits of two prominent legal and political figures from Dutch history: Adriaan van der Goes and Johan van Oldenbarnevelt. Both men held the prestigious title of Advocate of Holland, a position comparable to modern-day prime minister, wielding significant influence over the governance of the Dutch provinces.
The first portrait depicts Mr. Adriaan van der Goes, who served as Advocate of Holland in 1543. Rendered in fur-trimmed robes and a cap, his appearance reflects the dignified attire of 16th-century statesmen. His tenure fell during a turbulent era of early Habsburg rule in the Netherlands, when the seeds of later political and religious conflicts were already being sown.
The second portrait features Johan van Oldenbarnevelt (1547–1619), Lord of Berkel and Rodenrijs, who served as Advocate of Holland from 1586 until his downfall in 1619. A brilliant statesman, Oldenbarnevelt was instrumental in securing Dutch independence from Spain and shaping the political framework of the young Republic. His later years were marked by political rivalry with Maurice of Nassau, culminating in his arrest, trial, and execution — one of the most dramatic episodes in the history of the Dutch Republic. The engraving captures him in a fur-lined robe with a pronounced ruff collar, conveying both authority and the somber gravitas of his final years.
Both engravings are framed in finely executed oval borders, with meticulous linework highlighting facial features, clothing textures, and the soft sheen of fur. The craftsmanship reflects the high standards of Dutch portrait engraving during the 18th century, serving not only as visual records but also as tributes to these influential figures.
Condition: Good for age. Paper shows light toning and minor handling marks. Some faint foxing in the margins, but no tears or repairs. Visible plate marks add depth and authenticity.
Framing tips: Best displayed side-by-side in matching dark wooden or black frames with a cream or ivory mount. An antique gold inner fillet can enhance their historical presence, making them ideal for a library, study, or history-themed interior.
Technique: Copper engraving
Maker: Unknown Dutch engraver, Netherlands, c.1750
