Matthieu Wiegman (1886-1971) - Portret P. Heskes

This painting from 1938 depicts a cleric standing frontally and with dignity in a wooden chair. His dark clothing and white collar form a strong contrast with the warm reddish-brown tones of his face, hands, and chair. The portrait subject holds a small book in his hands, perhaps a prayer book or Bible, which emphasizes his religious function. Wiegman has paid particular attention to the face and the direct, calm gaze. The solid brushstrokes, dark outlines, and earthy colors give the portrait a sober and powerful character. In the upper left is the name P. Heskes with the year ’38, while at the upper right Wiegman’s signature is visible.

Matthieu Wiegman (1886–1971) was a Dutch painter, drawer, and printmaker closely connected with the Bergen School, an artists’ group that developed around Bergen in North Holland in the early twentieth century. He painted, among other things, portraits, landscapes, still lifes and religious scenes. His work is often recognizable by strong forms, clear contours, and a dark, warm color palette. In his portraits, Wiegman aimed not only to capture the appearance of his subjects but also to convey a sense of character and presence. This portrait from 1938 is a clear example of that.

Dimensions: 82 x 65 cm
Dimensions with frame: 91 x 74 cm

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