Portrait Of Jean-maurice De Nassau Siegen (1604-1679) (presumed By) Michiel Jansz. Van Mierevelt

A superb portrait, oil on canvas dating from the mid-17th century, depicting a high-ranking military officer from the prestigious House of Nassau.

The work is historically identified by a label on the frame reading: "Count John of Nassau (1604–1679), Commander-in-Chief of the Dutch Cavalry."
It is also inscribed in the upper left corner in golden cursive letters: “Graue Jan Van Nassau”.

This high military designation in the service of the United Provinces (the Dutch Republic) refers to Prince John Maurice of Nassau-Siegen (1604–1679), known as “the Brazilian”. The portrait therefore commemorates one of the most influential military and colonial figures of his time.

The sitter is depicted half-length, adopting a commanding posture, his face framed by the pointed beard and moustache fashionable at the time. His direct and confident gaze gives the painting great intensity.
He is dressed in a dark cuirass (breastplate armor) adorned with subtle gilded rivets, and wears a broad military sash symbolising his rank as General.

The execution of the turned-down white lace collar is particularly remarkable. This contrast between luxurious lace and sombre armor is characteristic of Dutch and Flemish Baroque portraiture, often associated with the circles of Anthony van Dyck and Mierevelt.

This portrait offers a vivid window into military prestige and European aristocracy at the height of the Dutch Golden Age and the Thirty Years’ War. Such portraits were symbols of power and status, commissioned by the greatest military leaders of the United Provinces and the Holy Roman Empire.

The work is presented in a beautiful, richly carved gilt frame (later frame in the style of the period).

In very good condition, the canvas was relined in the past.

On the back, old labels summarise the life of Count John of Nassau and the painter Jan Van Mierevelt.

Frame dimensions: 71.5 × 61.5 cm
Canvas dimensions: 60 × 50 cm

We are looking for 17th- and 18th-century early portraits — feel free to contact us.

Photos taken in natural light.
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