Home > Arts > Artists > E > Albert Eckhout
Don Miguel de Castro, Emissary of Kongo, c. 1643 (oil on panel)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Don Miguel de Castro, Emissary of Kongo, c. 1643 (oil on panel)
5675864 Don Miguel de Castro, Emissary of Kongo, c.1643 (oil on panel) by Becx, Jasper (c.1600-47); 72x62 cm; Statens Museum for Kunst, Copenhagen, Denmark; (add.info.: previously attributed to Albert Eckhout (1610-65)
Don Miguel, cousin of Count of Sonho was sent as an envoy to the Dutch Republic to ask the stadtholder to mediate in a conflict between the count and King Garcia II of Kongo. The Dutch West India Company had conquered Loango-Angola in 1641 from the Portuguese and had relied on the Count.); Dutch, out of copyright
Media ID 22767312
© Bridgeman Images
Ambassador Collar Congo Dutch Colonial Dutch Colony Dutch Empire Dutch Golden Age Dutch Republic Dutch West India Company Embassy Envoy Feather Geoctroyeerde Westindische Compagnie Golden Age Gwic Imperialism Kongo Messenger Seventeenth Starched Trading West India Company Occupation
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Angola
> Related Images
> Animals
> Mammals
> Cricetidae
> Golden Mouse
> Arts
> Artists
> E
> Albert Eckhout
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Oil paintings
> Portrait paintings
> Asia
> India
> Related Images
> Europe
> Denmark
> Copenhagen
> Europe
> Denmark
> Paintings
> Europe
> Denmark
> Related Images
> Europe
> Netherlands
> Paintings
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Peter Paul Rubens
EDITORS COMMENTS
This portrait captures the essence of Don Miguel de Castro, Emissary of Kongo, in exquisite detail. Painted by Jasper Becx during the Dutch Golden Age, this oil on panel masterpiece is now housed at the Statens Museum for Kunst in Copenhagen, Denmark. Don Miguel was a pivotal figure in history, serving as an envoy from Kongo to the Dutch Republic in 1643. His mission was to seek mediation between Count of Sonho and King Garcia II of Kongo. This conflict arose due to the Dutch West India Company's conquest of Loango-Angola from the Portuguese in 1641, with their reliance on the Count's support. The artist skillfully portrays Don Miguel wearing Western clothing that reflects both his African heritage and his diplomatic role. With a starched collar and feather-adorned hat, he exudes authority and elegance. A sword at his side symbolizes power and protection. Through this painting, we catch a glimpse into an era marked by colonialism and imperialism. It serves as a reminder of how European powers expanded their influence across continents through trade and occupation. Don Miguel's presence is dignified yet enigmatic; his gaze seems to hold untold stories within it. As an ambassador representing Kongo amidst shifting political dynamics, he played a crucial role in shaping history. Becx's masterful brushstrokes bring forth every intricate detail - from Don Miguel's expressive face to the delicate folds of his clothing - making this portrait not just a historical document but also a work of art that resonates with viewers today.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.