Portrait of Andries de Graeff

1661

In assuming power, the mayors of Amsterdam were inspired by the ancient Roman Republic. This is powerfully expressed in this imposing portrait bust of Andries de Graeff. With his cloak wrapped to resemble a Classical toga, the mayor had himself immortalized in marble in the guise of a Roman consul, as is suggested by the letters ‘COS’ (the abbreviation for a consul in ancient Rome) following his name on the pedestal.