Portrait of Jacob van der Tocht – Gouda Burgemeester, Engraved by Claessens, 1794 This finely executed 18th-century engraving portrays Jacob van der Tocht (d. 1680), a prominent Dutch statesman who served as Burgomaster (Mayor), Councillor, and Pensionary of the city of Gouda during the Dutch Republic’s Golden Age. He was also a representative of the States-General to the courts of Brussels and Berlin—an indication of his stature in both municipal and diplomatic affairs. The portrait shows van der Tocht in traditional 17th-century Dutch civic dress, with long curled hair and a white neckband. His solemn expression and formal posture reflect the dignity of his office.