A 17th Century Portrait of a Young Nobleman, with Strong Resemblance to Prince William of Orange in a Period Carved Gilt-Wood Frame.

A 17th Century Portrait of a Young Nobleman, with Strong Resemblance to Prince William of Orange in a Period Carved Gilt-Wood Frame.

By Jan Mytens (c.1614 – 24 December 1670)

A rare 17th-century oil on-panel portrait by Jan Mytens offers a striking depiction of a young nobleman, believed to be Prince William III of Orange. The portrait is noted for its exquisite detail and craftsmanship, embodying the distinct style and technique that Mytens was renowned for. The National Portrait Gallery in London has observed a strong resemblance between the sitter and Prince William of Orange in his teenage years, further solidifying its historical significance.
The painting is encased in a magnificent original Dutch giltwood frame from the 17th Century, reminiscent of the style later perfected by Grinling Gibbons, the famous wood carver and sculptor. This frame adds to the artwork’s allure and authenticity, enhancing its aesthetic and historic value.
Mytens, a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age of painting, was celebrated for his portraiture, particularly in rendering the attire of the affluent Dutch. This work is a testament to his skill, depicting the young nobleman in intricate clothing, a hallmark of Mytens’ attention to detail and mastery in portraying textures and fabrics.

The painting’s resemblance to the works of Willem van Honthorst, another distinguished Dutch Golden Age artist, indicates the interconnectedness and influence among artists of this era. This piece, therefore, not only represents Mytens’ individual artistry but also the broader artistic trends and styles of the 17th Century Dutch Golden Age.

Literature: Illustrated, Jan Mytens: Catalogue Raisonné, A13 p. 169 & 363.