Johan (1589-1618), Prince of Sweden, Duke of Östergötland * Holger Hansson

The portrait presents a young man in formal attire against a dark, nearly black background. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a sense of authority and perhaps expectation. The lighting focuses primarily on his face and upper torso, leaving the lower portion of the composition shrouded in shadow.
The subject’s clothing contributes significantly to the overall impression. A richly embroidered doublet, seemingly made of dark metal or intricately patterned fabric, covers his upper body. Over this is draped a blue cloth, possibly a cape or shawl, which adds a touch of regal color and texture. The collar, adorned with elaborate lace detailing, further emphasizes his status and refinement. His hands are clasped in front of him, a gesture that conveys composure and control.
Above the subject’s head, an inscription is visible, rendered in a formal script. It appears to be a dedication or memorial text, providing information about his identity and dates of birth and death. The presence of this inscription suggests the portrait was intended as a commemorative piece, likely created after his passing.
The artists technique reveals a certain degree of realism, particularly in the rendering of facial features and textures. However, there is also an element of stylization evident in the somewhat rigid posture and the idealized depiction of the subject’s face. The limited color palette – dominated by dark tones with accents of blue and white – contributes to a somber and dignified mood.
Subtly, the darkness surrounding the figure can be interpreted as symbolic of loss or mourning, aligning with the portraits commemorative function. The direct gaze suggests an attempt to preserve his image and legacy for posterity. The overall effect is one of restrained formality and solemn remembrance, indicative of a portrait intended to convey not only likeness but also status and historical significance.