Dirck Volkertsz Coornhert Hendrick Goltzius

Here we observe a portrait rendered in monochrome engraving, presenting a man facing slightly towards his left. The composition is framed by an oval border, inscribed with text that encircles the figure.
The subjects face dominates the visual field. He possesses a pronounced brow and deep-set eyes, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps even melancholy. A substantial beard, heavily textured with fine lines indicative of age, covers much of his lower face. The hair is similarly detailed, receding from the forehead and forming a dense mane around the sides of his head. The artist has meticulously captured the wrinkles and creases that mark the skin, suggesting a life lived with considerable thought and experience.
He wears what appears to be a high-collared garment, possibly a ruff or a similar period style, which adds volume and complexity to the composition around his neck. The fabric is rendered with careful attention to its folds and shadows, contributing to the overall realism of the portrayal. The light source seems to originate from the upper left, casting subtle shadows that define the contours of his face and clothing.
Beyond a straightforward depiction, the portrait suggests an emphasis on intellectual or scholarly pursuits. The serious expression and detailed rendering of age imply a man of learning and gravitas. The inscription within the oval border further reinforces this impression, hinting at a biographical or commemorative purpose. The engraving technique itself – with its reliance on precise lines and tonal variations – suggests a desire for permanence and accuracy in capturing the subjects likeness and character.