Frederick, Duke of Schomberg Jacobus Houbraken (1698-1780)

The engraving presents a man in formal attire, framed within an oval medallion. He is depicted from the chest up, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn expression. The subjects hair is styled in voluminous curls characteristic of the late seventeenth or early eighteenth century. A suit jacket, fastened at the neck, reveals portions of armor beneath, suggesting a military background and hinting at a dual identity – that of a nobleman and a soldier.
Below the portrait medallion, an elaborate decorative scrollwork serves as a visual bridge to a smaller scene rendered in greater detail. This lower panel illustrates what appears to be a battle or skirmish; numerous figures are engaged in combat amidst billowing smoke and chaos. The composition is dense with activity, though the scale of the individual figures diminishes their clarity, emphasizing the overall impression of widespread conflict.
The juxtaposition of the dignified portrait above and the tumultuous scene below creates a layered narrative. It suggests not only an individual’s presence but also his involvement in significant events. The formal presentation within the medallion implies authority and status, while the battle scene underscores a history of action and leadership. The contrast between stillness and movement, order and disorder, contributes to a sense of complexity regarding the subjects character – a man who embodies both refinement and martial prowess.
The engraving’s use of light and shadow is notable; it enhances the three-dimensionality of the portrait and adds drama to the battle scene. The meticulous detailing in the rendering of armor, hair, and facial features conveys respect for the individual depicted, while the chaotic depiction of the conflict suggests a broader historical context beyond his personal narrative. The overall effect is one of commemorating an individual whose life was intertwined with military campaigns and public service.