This fine, late-17th-century oil painting by Dutch artist Jan de Baen (1633-1702) depicts a gentleman wearing a sumptuous brown cloak atop a burgundy silk coak. De Baen was a renowned Golden Age portraitist who worked predominantly in The Hague for distinguished aristocratic patrons.Upstanding, with his left hand nonchalantly draped over a classical plinth, he conveys an air of complete self-assurance. His attire is an uncomplicated display of the finest materials, while his expression suggests a kindly demeanour. It�s one of de Baen�s better portrayals and captures the sitter�s spirit with finesse and bravura. The right hand is particularly successful, held in reverse on the hip to demonstrate the artist�s superior handling. Hailing from Haarlem in the Dutch Republic, de Baen�s father worked in the flourishing linen and flax trade at a time when the city was at the heart of linen production. European merchants sent their wares to the city for bleaching and finishing, as descri...