Matthias of Krakow, delegate from Poland * Anselm van Hulle (1601-1674)

The portrait presents a man in elaborate ceremonial attire against a dark, nearly black background. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn and somewhat melancholic expression. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, leaving the lower portion of the garment in shadow.
Here we see a striking color palette dominated by shades of red and brown. The man’s attire consists of a tall, conical hat – rendered in a vibrant orange – and a voluminous cloak or mantle of similar hue. A fur collar adorns the neckline, providing textural contrast to the smooth fabric beneath. Intricate embroidery, featuring what appear to be silver or gold thread, traces the edges of the garment and adds visual complexity. The man’s beard is long, dark, and meticulously groomed, contributing to an overall impression of dignity and authority.
The artist has paid considerable attention to rendering details such as the texture of the fur, the sheen of the embroidery, and the subtle nuances of skin tone. This suggests a desire for realism combined with a symbolic representation of status and importance. The man’s hands are partially visible, one holding what appears to be a small pouch or seal – a potential indicator of his official role.
The inscriptions at the top corners offer further context. One reads D: Iaremet parens, while the other states “H. Simp.c. auf: Libenberg Jurgor Rogolski Abgestalter.” These phrases, likely names or titles, reinforce the notion that this is a formal portrait intended to commemorate an individual of significance.
Subtly, theres a sense of restraint in the composition. The lack of background detail focuses attention entirely on the subject and his clothing, suggesting a deliberate attempt to convey power and status through material display. The somewhat somber expression, coupled with the dark backdrop, introduces a layer of complexity – hinting at potential burdens or responsibilities associated with the man’s position. Overall, the painting conveys an image of a person holding a high office, likely representing a foreign delegation, emphasizing both his authority and perhaps a degree of introspection.