Troost, Cornelis – Portret van een lid van de familie Van der Mersch, 1736 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The composition presents a seated gentleman in a three-quarter pose, occupying the central space within a richly appointed interior. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a composed and confident expression. The man wears a tailored coat of muted grey-green hue, accented by a pale blue waistcoat visible at the open collar. His legs are crossed casually, revealing finely knitted stockings and buckled shoes, details indicative of his social standing.
The setting is defined by dark, heavy draperies that frame the scene, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and enclosure. A bookcase filled with volumes stands in the background, suggesting a cultivated intellect and access to knowledge. To the gentleman’s right rests a cello, propped against a table alongside sheet music and a bow. The presence of these musical instruments implies patronage of the arts or perhaps personal skill as a musician. A terrestrial globe is situated near his left leg, hinting at an interest in exploration, navigation, or global affairs – all hallmarks of a man engaged with the wider world.
The color palette is dominated by cool tones – the grey-green of the coat, the blue waistcoat, and the dark background draperies – which are punctuated by warmer accents such as the reddish hues of the carpet and the golden tones of the cello and bow. The lighting appears to originate from a source positioned slightly above and to the left of the subject, illuminating his face and highlighting the textures of his clothing.
The arrangement of objects around the gentleman suggests an intentional construction of identity. He is not merely depicted; he is presented as a man of refinement, intellect, musical aptitude, and worldly awareness. The overall effect conveys a sense of established status and cultivated leisure – a portrait intended to project an image of prosperity and cultural sophistication.