Portret van Johannes Cocceius - Willem de Broen

A formal seventeenth-century engraving by Willem de Broen, depicting the theologian Johannes Cocceius within an oval frame.

This engraving by Willem de Broen depicts the theologian Johannes Cocceius, a figure of considerable influence in seventeenth-century Dutch intellectual life. The portrait is executed with the technical precision characteristic of Dutch printmaking during this period. The subject is presented within an oval frame, a common convention for formal portraiture that directs the viewer's attention to the sitter's facial features and expression.

Cocceius is shown in three-quarter profile, wearing the traditional attire of a scholar or clergyman, including a plain white collar and a dark, buttoned garment. His long, flowing hair is rendered with fine, rhythmic lines that suggest texture and volume. The shading across his face and clothing is achieved through a combination of cross-hatching and parallel lines, creating a sense of three-dimensional form. Below the oval frame, a plinth bears the name 'COCCEJUS' in clear, capitalised lettering, accompanied by a small coat of arms featuring crossed keys.

The print demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship associated with the de Broen workshop. The surrounding oval border is decorated with fine, parallel lines that mimic the appearance of a carved frame, adding a sense of physical depth to the composition. The background within the oval is dark, which helps to isolate the figure and provide a sense of gravitas. This work is a representative example of the portrait prints produced in the Netherlands during the late seventeenth century, intended for distribution among scholars and collectors of theological literature. The clarity of the line work and the balanced composition reflect the disciplined approach to portraiture that defined the era.