An Allegorical Subject (The Just Ruler)
- Artist: Willem de Poorter
- Date: probably 1636
- Medium: oil on wood
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
Listen to the free audio guide
About this artwork
This is the "An Allegorical Subject (The Just Ruler)" by Willem de Poorter. Painted in the Dutch north, it's a work from around 1636 that's steeped in symbolism and meaning. Take a look at the young man standing before you - he turns his head to meet your gaze, almost as if challenging you to understand him.
Notice how much of the painting is shrouded in gloom, but his face is illuminated by the sunlight pouring in from above. This highlights not only his figure but also the opulent details on his cloak and sceptre. It's a clever use of light to draw attention to his authority and power.
Look down at the floor behind him - you'll see a pile of discarded armour and weapons, as well as musical instruments like drums and trumpets. This is what makes interpretation difficult - does he stand for peace and law, or is this just a depiction of war's futility? Perhaps it's meant to be a representation of Merit, assuming worldly power, and so embodying the Just Ruler.
As you take in these details, remember that this was a time when the Netherlands was struggling for independence from Spain. It's likely that themes like this would have been popular among artists and viewers alike. De Poorter, who was born and worked in Haarlem, seems to have drawn inspiration from his surroundings and fellow artists - particularly Rembrandt.
See it in person
An Allegorical Subject (The Just Ruler) hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
