Portrait of John Locke Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a man in three-quarter profile against a dark background, contained within an elaborate oval frame. He is depicted with a serious expression; his gaze directed slightly off-center, suggesting introspection or perhaps a distant focus. The artist rendered him with meticulous attention to detail, particularly evident in the rendering of his hair and facial features – fine lines etched around the eyes and mouth convey age and experience.
He wears a dark, draped garment that falls loosely over his shoulders, its folds carefully modeled to suggest volume and texture. This simplicity of dress contributes to an overall impression of understated dignity and intellectual gravitas. The lighting is focused on his face and upper torso, leaving the lower portion of the composition in shadow, which further emphasizes his presence as a figure of authority.
Below the frame, a symbolic tableau unfolds. A stack of books rests upon a table, hinting at scholarship and learning. Beside them, a small sculpture depicting a seated female figure holding a laurel wreath is placed. This allegorical representation likely alludes to wisdom, achievement, or perhaps even fame – attributes often associated with intellectual pursuits. The inclusion of these elements elevates the portrait beyond a simple likeness; it suggests an individual whose life was dedicated to knowledge and who has achieved recognition for his contributions.
The engraving’s style is characteristic of late seventeenth-century printmaking techniques, utilizing fine lines and subtle shading to create depth and form. The inscription at the top identifies the subject by name, solidifying his status as a person of significance. Overall, the work conveys an image of a thoughtful, learned man, presented within a framework that underscores his intellectual accomplishments and societal standing.