Ulrik Cornelis van der Meulen (1642-1692)

The composition presents a youthful subject depicted as a bust, set against a starkly dark background that emphasizes his pale complexion and the textures of the surrounding elements. The boys gaze is direct, almost unwavering, lending him an air of solemnity unusual for someone so young. He is draped in a green cloth, loosely arranged to suggest classical drapery, which further contributes to the impression of idealized portraiture.
The artist has employed chiaroscuro techniques – a dramatic contrast between light and dark – to sculpt the boy’s features and highlight his skin. The lighting appears to originate from an unseen source above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that define the contours of his face and neck. This creates a sense of depth and volume, while also drawing attention to the delicate details of his expression.
Below the bust, several symbolic objects are arranged on a dark ledge. A book with gilded edges stands upright, suggesting learning or intellectual pursuits. Beside it lies a withered rose, its petals drooping downwards – a poignant symbol of transience, lost innocence, or perhaps even premature mortality. The inscription ULRICUS T.S. is visible on the ledge near the boys base, providing a name and initials that offer a key to his identity.
The dark background, devoid of any landscape or contextual details, serves to isolate the subject and concentrate attention entirely upon him. This isolation reinforces the sense of formality and elevates the portrait beyond a simple likeness, suggesting an attempt at conveying something more profound about the boy’s character or destiny. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet contemplation, hinting at themes of youth, knowledge, loss, and perhaps even a subtle melancholy.