Frederick de Vries Hendrick Goltzius

The engraving presents a gentleman seated atop a large dog, positioned within a naturalistic setting. The man is dressed in elaborate attire characteristic of the early seventeenth century: a high-collared shirt with intricate lace detailing, a doublet adorned with complex patterns, and a broad-brimmed hat casting shadows across his face. He holds a small bird aloft on his outstretched arm, seemingly offering it as a gesture or perhaps preparing to release it.
The dog, rendered with considerable detail in its fur and musculature, dominates the lower portion of the composition. Its posture suggests both strength and docility; it stands firmly planted while bearing the weight of its rider. The background features a dense grove of trees, partially obscuring the sky and creating a sense of enclosure. Light filters through the foliage, illuminating specific areas of the scene and contributing to the overall depth.
Beyond the literal depiction, several layers of meaning appear possible. The pairing of man and dog suggests a relationship of mastery and companionship, reflecting societal hierarchies and the role of animals in human life during this period. The bird held by the gentleman could symbolize freedom, aspiration, or perhaps even fragility – its fate seemingly dependent on the actions of the man.
The elaborate clothing and confident posture of the gentleman imply status and wealth. He is not merely a participant in nature but an observer, elevated above it both literally and figuratively. The engraving’s meticulous detail and precise linework point to a deliberate effort to convey not only physical likeness but also social standing and symbolic significance.
The presence of Latin inscriptions at the bottom of the image further reinforces this sense of formality and elevates the work beyond a simple portrait, suggesting an intention for posterity or commemoration. The overall effect is one of controlled elegance and subtle commentary on power, nature, and human interaction.