Hodges, Charles Howard – Cornelis Apostool (1762-1844). Eerste directeur van het Koninklijk Museum, later Rijks Museum te Amsterdam, 1816-1834 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The portrait presents a gentleman in what appears to be formal attire of the early nineteenth century. He is positioned slightly off-center within the composition, gazing directly at the viewer with a measured expression. The artist has rendered him with meticulous attention to detail; his skin tone exhibits subtle variations, and the texture of his hair – thinning on top but neatly styled – is convincingly portrayed.
The man’s clothing contributes significantly to the overall impression of authority and refinement. A dark, tailored coat is paired with a crisp white shirt collar and cravat, suggesting a position of some social standing. A small decorative emblem is pinned to his lapel, likely signifying membership in an organization or order. He holds a book open in his left hand; its pages are visible, though the text itself remains illegible. This gesture implies intellectual pursuits and perhaps a dedication to scholarship or administration.
The background is deliberately subdued, consisting of deep red drapery that creates a sense of depth while preventing distraction from the central figure. A dark wooden table with a spherical object rests partially in view at the lower left corner; its purpose remains ambiguous but adds a touch of understated elegance to the scene.
Subtleties within the portrait suggest more than just a straightforward depiction of an individual. The direct gaze establishes a connection between the subject and the viewer, inviting scrutiny and perhaps conveying a sense of confidence or even challenge. The book held in his hand is not merely a prop; it serves as a symbol of knowledge, responsibility, and potentially, leadership. The overall effect is one of dignified composure, hinting at a man of intellect and influence within a formal institutional setting.