Dyck Anthony van (1599 Antwerp – 1641 London) – Thomas Howard, 2nd Earl of Arundel (103x79 cm) ca1621 J. Paul Getty Museum

The portrait presents a man in formal attire, seated and turned slightly towards the viewer. He is positioned against a backdrop that combines elements of interior space with a distant landscape. The sitters gaze is directed outward, suggesting a contemplative or observant nature.
The artist has rendered the subject’s face with meticulous detail, emphasizing his age through the depiction of wrinkles around the eyes and mouth, as well as the grey streaking within his dark beard. A prominent ruff frames his neck, its intricate folds meticulously captured in shadow and light, indicative of a man of status and refinement. The dark fabric of his doublet contrasts sharply with the lighter tones of his skin, drawing attention to his features. He holds a rolled document or letter in his left hand, resting it on what appears to be a red cushion; this gesture might signify his involvement in correspondence or administrative duties. A large ring adorns his finger, further reinforcing his position within the aristocracy.
Behind him, a heavy curtain of deep crimson drapes down, partially obscuring the architectural details of the room. The landscape visible through an opening behind the sitter is rendered with less precision than the figure itself; it appears to be a coastal scene with figures engaged in what might be athletic or military activities. This distant view introduces a sense of scale and perspective, while also hinting at broader interests beyond the immediate domestic sphere.
The lighting within the painting is dramatic, employing chiaroscuro techniques to highlight certain areas of the face and clothing while leaving others in shadow. The overall effect is one of gravitas and authority. The composition suggests an individual who values intellect, tradition, and a connection to both his personal affairs and the wider world. The inclusion of the landscape, though somewhat blurred, implies a man with interests beyond the confines of courtly life – perhaps a patron of the arts or someone involved in exploration or diplomacy.