Hidden Verspronck I.1

The definition of what is different varies through the ages. But being different from most people around you is not necessarily a comfortable situation.

The portrait of Andries Stilte, painted by Johannes Cornelisz Verspronck shows a proud, wealthy man in the position of a prestigious flag bearer. His overall attire, the shimmering pink satin costume, the colorful feathers on the large hat, and his posture, all attest to a respected and accepted member of society in 17th century Holland.

Nowadays, it would be just the opposite. A comparable outfit would be in sharp contrast to the norms of a masculine appearance. It would exclude him rather than honor him. Pointing to and exaggerating this, I have covered him with parts of his lace decoration, which now look like lingerie over his eyes. Additional bows mirror the sweep of his pose and feather decoration.

Now, his individuality is hidden, everything is concentrated on these elements, which today would be exclusionary, but then were signs of a social elite. Norms are strange constructions of a time.