David de Wildt (1611-1671), Secretary of the Admiralty of Amsterdam

Before you stands "David de Wildt (1611-1671), Secretary of the Admiralty of Amsterdam," a captivating portrait painted in 1667 by the renowned artist Ferdinand Bol. This oil on canvas masterpiece, measuring 1.02 meters wide and 1.22 meters high, is part of the esteemed collection of the Amsterdam Museum. nn The painting presents David de Wildt in a three-quarter view, seated and slightly turned towards his left. He is a man of middle age, his brown hair reaching his shoulders, his expression serious yet composed. He is dressed in a dark, long-sleeved black robe, worn over a crisp white, high-collared shirt, perhaps a clerical collar, adorned with a small, dark ornament near the center. His hands rest calmly in his lap, upon the dark reddish-brown armrest of his chair. To his left, a stack of papers hints at his important role as Secretary of the Admiralty. nn The background is deliberately subdued, dominated by heavy, dark reddish-brown curtains that frame De Wildt, drawing the viewer's attention to the subject. The overall color palette is rich yet restrained, with the black of his robe providing a strong contrast to the white of his collar, which in turn highlights his face. The skillful use of light and shadow creates depth and volume, particularly noticeable in the folds of his robe and the background drapery. nn This portrait is a prime example of 17th-century Dutch portraiture, showcasing a remarkable realism and quiet dignity. The careful depiction of De Wildt's attire and the documents subtly underscores his significant position within Amsterdam's Admiralty, making this painting not only a beautiful work of art but also a valuable historical document.