Sir John Ashburnham (1571-1620) Hieronymus Custodis (1589-1598)

The portrait presents a man in what appears to be formal attire from the late sixteenth or early seventeenth century. He is positioned against a stark black background, which emphasizes his figure and draws attention to the details of his clothing. The composition is a half-length view, cropped just below the waist, focusing on the upper body and face.
The man’s expression is one of controlled composure; he gazes directly at the viewer with an air of quiet confidence. His features are rendered with meticulous detail – the slight curve of his lips, the subtle shadowing around his eyes – suggesting a desire to convey intelligence and authority. The hair, neatly trimmed and styled, frames his face, while the elaborate ruff encircling his neck is a significant element of the portrait’s visual language. Its size and intricate folds speak to wealth and status, reflecting the conventions of aristocratic portraiture during this period.
He wears a finely crafted suit of armor, its surface meticulously rendered with an attention to texture and light. The metallic sheen suggests both protection and prestige. A glimpse of a richly colored lining is visible at the cuffs and collar, adding another layer of visual interest and reinforcing his elevated social standing. In his left hand, he holds a small book or tablet, which could symbolize learning, piety, or administrative duties – all attributes valued in a man of his apparent position.
Inscribed near the top corners are dates: ANNO DNI 1597 and ATATIS SVL[E]. The first indicates the year of the portraits creation; the second likely refers to his age at that time, suggesting he was approximately twenty-six years old. These inscriptions serve as a formal record, typical of portraits intended for posterity or family documentation.
The overall effect is one of restrained grandeur and carefully constructed identity. The artist has not only captured a likeness but also sought to convey the sitter’s social standing, intellect, and character through meticulous detail and symbolic elements.