Johan von Wallenstein, Count * Anselm van Hulle (1601-1674)

The portrait presents a man in three-quarter view, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a subtle, almost enigmatic expression. He is depicted against a dark, indistinct background that emphasizes his presence and isolates him from any specific setting. The lighting is concentrated on his face and upper torso, highlighting the texture of his skin and the elaborate details of his attire.
The man’s most striking feature is undoubtedly his voluminous, meticulously styled hair, which cascades around his head in a cascade of curls. This hairstyle, characteristic of the period, suggests wealth and status. He wears a dark, high-collared garment, likely velvet or a similar luxurious fabric, fastened with an ornate pendant that dangles near his chest. A glimpse of intricately patterned lace is visible at his wrist, further reinforcing the impression of considerable affluence.
The artist has rendered the man’s features with a degree of realism, capturing the subtle nuances of his expression – a slight smile playing on his lips, and an alertness in his eyes. The skin tone appears somewhat pale, suggesting either a deliberate artistic choice or perhaps reflecting the lighting conditions prevalent at the time.
Above the figure, inscribed in elegant script, is a Latin phrase identifying him as Johannes comes de Wallenstein – John, Count of Wallenstein – “Rex Ungern abgefanter” (King of Hungary, appointed). This inscription provides crucial context for understanding the subjects identity and position within the historical landscape.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a nobleman, the portrait carries several layers of subtext. The dark background contributes to an atmosphere of solemnity and perhaps even foreboding. The man’s gaze, while seemingly direct, is difficult to interpret; it could convey confidence, calculation, or even a hint of melancholy. Given the historical context suggested by the inscription, one might infer that this portrait was intended not only as a representation of status but also as a record of a powerful and complex figure whose life was marked by both triumph and tragedy. The overall effect is one of restrained grandeur, hinting at a personality of considerable ambition and influence.