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Artist: Johannes Mytens (Jan Mijtens or “Mytens” in English) (c.1614 – 24 December 1670) Origin: The Hague, Netherlands Period: Dutch Golden Age Specialisation: Portraitist Training: Under Anthony van Opstal and Nicolas van der Horst Guild Membership: The Hague Guild of Saint Luke (since 1642) Notable Skills: Exceptional depiction of clothing of affluent Dutch society Influences: Noted resemblance and influence from the work of Willem van Honthorst, a renowned Dutch Golden Age painter


Artwork Details:

  • Title: Portrait of a Young Nobleman
  • Possible Subject: Prince William III of Orange
  • Stock Number: 4242
  • Medium: Oil on Panel
  • Dimensions:
    • Frame: Height – 26.25 inches, Width – 22.25 inches
    • Painting: Height – 16.75 inches, Width – 12.75 inches
  • Catalogue Reference: Jan Mytens: Catalogue Raisonné, A13 p. 169 & 363
  • Price: £25,000

Description: This rare 17th-century oil on panel portrait by Jan Mytens offers a striking depiction of a young nobleman, believed to be Prince William III of Orange. The portrait is noted for its exquisite detail and craftsmanship, embodying the distinct style and technique that Mytens was renowned for. The National Portrait Gallery in London has observed a strong resemblance between the sitter and Prince William of Orange in his teenage years, further solidifying its historical significance.

The painting is encased in a magnificent original Dutch giltwood frame from the 17th Century, reminiscent of the style later perfected by Grinling Gibbons, the famous wood carver and sculptor. This frame adds to the artwork’s allure and authenticity, enhancing its aesthetic and historic value.

Mytens, a prominent figure in the Dutch Golden Age of painting, was celebrated for his portraiture, particularly in rendering the attire of the affluent Dutch. This work is a testament to his skill, depicting the young nobleman in intricate clothing, a hallmark of Mytens’ attention to detail and mastery in portraying textures and fabrics.

The painting’s resemblance to the works of Willem van Honthorst, another distinguished Dutch Golden Age artist, indicates the interconnectedness and influence among artists of this era. This piece, therefore, not only represents Mytens’ individual artistry but also the broader artistic trends and styles of the 17th Century Dutch Golden Age.

Acquisition Opportunity: This portrait offers a unique opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts of Dutch Golden Age art to own a piece steeped in historical and artistic significance. It represents a convergence of talent, history, and craftsmanship, making it a valuable addition to any collection of European art.

For inquiries and further details, please contact the gallery.

The Rijksmuseum noted that this painting shows strong similarities & influence to the work of the artist Willem van Honthorst. The National Portrait Gallery in London felt the sitter certainly bore strong resemblance to Prince William III of Orange in his teen years.

This beautiful portrait is set within a magnificent 17th Century original Dutch giltwood frame, very much of the style later adopted & perfected by the master wood carver & sculptor Grinling Gibbons ( 1648 – 1721 ).

Willem van Honthorst ( 1596 – 1666 ) was one of the Dutch ”Golden Age” painters. He was born in Utrecht, the younger brother of Gerard van Honthorst, whose father Herman taught them both to paint along with Abraham Bloemaert. Like his brother, he is known as a follower of Caravaggio and became a respected portrait painter. He was Court painter in Berlin to Countess Louise Henriette of Nassau during the years 1647-1664. Louise Henrietta of Nassau ( 1627 – 1667 ) was a Countess of Nassau, Granddaughter of William I, Prince of Orange, “William the Silent”, and an Electress of Brandenburg. She grew up at the Court of her Father, the Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, Utrecht, Guelders and Overijssel.

Taking in to account whom the sitter could be & also the resemblance to the work of the above named artist, although speculative, it is entirely possible that the artist would have encountered the Countess’s relative Prince William III & as her Court painter, the young Prince could well have sat for him.

We have selected images showing Prince William from a very young age to his 20’s. We believe that our portrait is an exceptionally close resemblance of the documented paintings and date wise falls perfectly in line with Prince Williams age. The nose, the eyebrows, his parting, eyes and mouth all show strong similarities that lead us to propose that this is a portrait Prince William of Orange.

Nicholas Wells Antiques advisors are available to answer all your questions. 

Please email us or call +44 (0)207 6920 897

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Jan Mytens | Young Nobleman

Stock Number: 4242

Rare 17th Century Oil On Panel Portrait Of A Young Nobleman, possibly Prince William Of Orange.

Jan Mytens: Catalogue Raisonné, A13 p. 169 & 363



Frame Height: 26.25 inches

Frame Width: 22.25 inches

Painting Height: 16.75 inches

Painting Width: 12.75 inches

£25,000

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