Internet Freaks Out Over Centuries-Old Painting That Looks Exactly Like Finn Wolfhard
A centuries-old painting in London’s National Portrait Gallery is getting major attention online because it looks just like Stranger Things star Finn Wolfhard. The portrait, painted in 1634 by Flemish artist Anthony van Dyck, shows Cesare Alessandro Scaglia, but many viewers say the resemblance to the 23-year-old actor is uncanny.
The buzz started on TikTok when user @mica_spamx posted a short video of the gallery visit on March 2. In the clip, a young woman reacts in shock as she zooms in on the painting. The text on the video reads, “Guys why is Finn Wolfhard in London’s National Gallery?” The caption added, “My friend pointed out that he looks just like him.” The post has been viewed over 48,000 times and liked more than 12,000 times.
Viewers quickly took to the comments to share their reactions. “Why’s that literally him I’m scared,” one user wrote. Another said, “OMG I thought this exact thing when I saw it.” Some fans even joked about the age of the portrait. “Bro he’s historic,” one commented, while another added, “bye that’s terrifying.”
Head to Room 21 to take a closer look at the elegant and formidable Cesare Alessandro Scaglia di Verrua – the folds and detail of his lavish black robes are now visible after cleaning.
— National Gallery (@NationalGallery) September 19, 2021
Book your ticket to visit here: https://t.co/ojzGU00yfN pic.twitter.com/DRhOjICEkY
The attention isn’t just online. Some gallery visitors have noticed the resemblance too. One person commented, “YES I TOOK A PIC OF IT TOO,” confirming that the connection had been spotted before the TikTok went viral.
Anthony van Dyck, known for painting aristocrats and prominent figures, was praised for creating lifelike portraits. That realism may explain why viewers today are so quick to spot familiar faces in his work, even centuries later.
This viral moment shows how social media can bring centuries-old art back into the spotlight in unexpected ways. People are enjoying the humor of seeing a 17th-century doppelgänger of a modern actor.
It’s fascinating how art can connect across time. The resemblance is eerie, but it also makes history feel alive. Do you think Finn Wolfhard really looks like the painting, or is it just a funny coincidence? Share your thoughts in the comments.
