Jacob van Dalen (1570–1644), Called Vallensis

Michiel Jansz. van Mierevelt's 1640 portrait of Jacob van Dalen is a late work by the most prolific portrait painter of the Dutch Republic's first generation. Van Mierevelt served as court painter to the Princes of Orange and produced hundreds of portraits documenting Dutch political, military, and ecclesiastical leaders. His efficient, clear style established the template for Dutch portrait painting that would be elaborated by later masters.

Van Mierevelt's oil-on-wood panel demonstrates his characteristically precise, unembellished technique with clear lighting and sharp focus on the sitter's features. The smooth surface and restrained palette subordinate artistic display to faithful documentation of the sitter's appearance.