Portrait of a Woman, probably Aeltje Dircksdr. Pater
1638
Check out that collar! It’s a 'millstone ruff,' a fashion statement so large and stiff it probably required its own support system to keep her head upright. Frans Hals painted this wealthy Dutch woman in 1638 when she was 41, as the faint inscription in the background proudly declares. Her black dress with intricate gold embroidery screams 'Dutch Golden Age wealth,' and Hals’ loose brushwork makes the lace cuffs look incredibly crisp. This was likely part of a pendant pair, originally hanging next to her husband's portrait so the couple could gaze at each other for eternity.
- Technique
- Oil on canvas
- Material
- Oil paint
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