Portrait of John Milton Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a seated figure within an oval frame, his name inscribed in capital letters along the perimeter. He is depicted from the chest up, facing slightly towards the viewers left. The man wears dark clothing with a prominent, starched ruff around his neck – a characteristic feature of 17th-century attire. His expression is serious and contemplative; his gaze directed downwards, suggesting introspection or perhaps weariness.
Below the portrait, a still life arrangement occupies the lower portion of the composition. A large volume lies open on a draped surface, presumably representing scholarship and intellectual pursuits. Beside it rests a lyre, an instrument traditionally associated with poetry and music. The presence of laurel branches intertwined with the lyre reinforces this connection to artistic achievement and poetic excellence; laurel was often used as a symbol of victory or honor in classical antiquity. A small skull is nestled among the foliage, introducing a subtle memento mori – a reminder of mortality and the transient nature of earthly accomplishments.
The overall effect suggests an individual of considerable intellect and literary significance. The inclusion of the lyre and laurel branches elevates him beyond a mere portrait; it positions him as a figure worthy of veneration for his artistic contributions. The skull, however, tempers this glorification with a note of melancholy, hinting at the inevitable decline that awaits all individuals, regardless of their fame or talent. The engraving’s meticulous detail and formal composition contribute to an atmosphere of solemnity and respect, intended to convey not only a likeness but also a sense of the subjects character and legacy.