Portrait of a Man

Troost, the most important Dutch painter of the eighteenth century, is known mainly for his theatrical scenes. But he also made elegant portraits of well-to-do citizens, such as this unknown man. Troost paid a great deal of attention to depicting fabrics like the blue velvet of the cloak, with white wig powder on the shoulders. The book the man is holding so pointedly shows that he is a well-read gentleman.