Artwork
Portrait of Grietje Pietersdr Codde (d. 1607), wife of Jacob Bas

Portrait of Grietje Pietersdr Codde (d. 1607), wife of Jacob Bas is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Adriaen Thomasz. Key. It is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. This 1594 oil portrait by Adriaen Thomasz.
About this work
Overview
This 1594 oil portrait by Adriaen Thomasz. Key depicts Grietje Pietersdr Codde, wife of Jacob Bas, set against a dark background that accentuates her calm, slightly smiling figure.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Grietje Pietersdr Codde, is portrayed with restraint, her pale face, serene expression, and subtle smile conveying a sense of quiet dignity. Her attire—a plain black dress, white ruff collar, and dark hat with lace trim—reflects the modesty and formality of her social standing.
Technique & Style
Key employs soft brushstrokes to achieve a smooth texture on both skin and clothing. The prominent use of chiaroscuro, with strong contrasts between light and dark, adds depth and emphasizes the subject's presence.
History & Provenance
Created in 1594 by Adriaen Thomasz. Key, a Flemish painter trained under Willem Key in Antwerp, the portrait is now part of the Rijksmuseum's collection. Key's work was admired for its technical skill and innovation, later influencing notable artists like Rubens.
Context
This portrait was produced during the Northern Renaissance, a period characterized by the emergence of highly detailed and realistic art forms. Key's innovative approach and technical prowess positioned him as a significant figure in this artistic movement.
Legacy
Adriaen Thomasz. Key's influence on subsequent artists, including the renowned Peter Paul Rubens, underscores the enduring impact of his portraits, such as this one of Grietje Pietersdr Codde, on the development of Flemish painting.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Adriaen Thomasz. Key (c. 1544 in Antwerp – after 1589 in Antwerp) was a Flemish painter of portraits and religious paintings, a draughtsman and a printmaker. He worked for a while in the Antwerp workshop of the…
















