Reproduction Portrait of Johan de Vries, director of the Rotterdam Chamber of Commerce of the Dutch East India Company, elected in 1667 - Pieter van der Werff – Captivating introduction The portrait of Johan de Vries, created by Pieter van der Werff, is an iconic work that embodies the spirit of 17th-century Dutch art. This period, marked by unprecedented economic growth, saw the emergence of influential figures such as Johan de Vries, a businessman whose contributions to the Rotterdam Chamber of Commerce are undeniable. This artwork does more than depict a face; it captures the very essence of an era where maritime trade and international exchanges shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the United Provinces. Gazing upon this piece, the viewer is transported to a world where power, wealth, and knowledge intertwine in a striking visual harmony. Style and uniqueness of the work Pieter van der Werff's style is distinguished by its finesse and attention to detail. In the portrait of Johan de Vries, the artist employs chiaroscuro techniques to emphasize facial features and add depth to the composition. The light appears to caress the director's face, highlighting his contemplative expression and penetrating gaze. The drapery of his clothing, carefully painted, demonstrates exceptional craftsmanship and mastery of texture, giving the work a tactile dimension. The background, simple and unobtrusive, allows focus on the main subject while evoking the dignity and importance of the depicted man. Every element of the canvas, from color choices to accessory details, contributes to creating an atmosphere of respect and reverence for Johan de Vries. The artist and his influence Pieter van der Werff, born in 1659, was a painter who established himself in the Dutch artistic landscape. Trained in the workshop of the illustrious painter Anthonie van Dyck, he developed a style that combines the rigor of classical portraiture with a sensitivity characteristic of his era. His work is marked by meticulous detail and an ability to convey emotions through the facial expressions of his subjects. Van der Werff was also a painter