Portret van Daniël Serrurier

About this artwork

De geportretteerde zit dwars op een stoel.

Art Historical Context

**Portret van Daniël Serrurier**1854) is a compelling lithograph by Dutch artist Leonard de Koningh, the sitter in a relaxed, sideways pose on a chair. Measuring 510mm by 370mm, this mid-19th-century portrait exemplifies the era's growing interest in intimate, character-driven likenesses, reflecting the Romantic emphasis on individuality amid Europe's industrial changes. Lithography, de Koningh's chosen medium, was revolutionary for its time—a planographic printing technique using greasy crayon on stone that allowed for nuanced shading and fine details, far surpassing earlier methods. This made high-quality portraits accessible beyond oil paintings reserved for the elite, democratizing art in the Netherlands during a period of cultural flourishing. The casual seating suggests a moment of contemplation, inviting viewers to ponder Daniël Serrurier's story—perhaps a professional or local notable. De Koningh's precise lines breathe life into the composition, offering a window into 1850s Dutch society where such prints adorned homes and studios alike. A testament to lithography's enduring appeal!