Young Woman with a Pink
ca. 1485-90
Notice that incredibly high forehead? In the late 15th century, that was the height of fashion—women actually plucked their hairlines back to achieve that elegant, elongated look! Hans Memling, a master of the Northern Renaissance, painted this young woman holding a red carnation (often called a 'pink'), which was a secret visual code for betrothal or engagement. She stands framed by a brick archway with a lush landscape behind her, gazing off to the side with a serene expression that hints at the quiet, refined beauty standards of the era.
- Technique
- Oil on wood panel
- Material
- Wood panel
Location: National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
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