Unknown Artist – Een man met een tekening van bloemen, zogenaamd portret van Jacob Feitama Jr (1698-1774), koopman te Amsterdam, 1730 Rijksmuseum: part 1

The painting presents a man in contemplative repose, positioned three-quarters to the viewers left. He is seated at what appears to be a table or desk, his elbow resting on its surface and his chin supported by his hand – a gesture indicative of introspection or perhaps weariness. The sitter’s gaze is directed slightly upward and to his left, suggesting he is lost in thought or observing something beyond the immediate frame.
The mans attire denotes a certain level of prosperity and refinement. He wears a green velvet jacket over an elaborately embroidered shirt with delicate lace cuffs. A matching green cap sits atop his head, completing the ensemble. The color green itself carries connotations of wealth, status, and connection to nature – a common association in 18th-century Dutch portraiture.
Before him lies a sheet of paper bearing a floral drawing. This detail is significant; it introduces an element of artistic appreciation or perhaps even personal creation into the narrative. It could imply that the man himself is an amateur artist, or that he values art and beauty. The flowers themselves – though indistinct – suggest themes of growth, fragility, and the ephemeral nature of life.
The background is deliberately subdued, consisting primarily of dark drapery which serves to isolate the figure and focus attention on his face and hands. This use of chiaroscuro (the contrast between light and shadow) enhances the sense of depth and adds a dramatic quality to the scene. The limited palette – dominated by greens, browns, and creams – contributes to an overall feeling of quiet dignity and restrained emotion.
Subtly, the painting conveys more than just a likeness; it suggests a man engaged in intellectual or artistic pursuits, someone who finds solace and perhaps even meaning in beauty and contemplation. The posture and expression hint at a complex inner life, inviting speculation about his character and circumstances. The inclusion of the floral drawing introduces an element of personal narrative – a glimpse into the sitter’s interests and possibly his identity.