Who painted Portrait of a Woman?

Portrait of a Woman was painted by Unknown in 1537.

Where can I see Portrait of a Woman?

Portrait of a Woman is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is Portrait of a Woman?

Portrait of a Woman is associated with Mannerism.

Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Unknown , 1537

Portrait of a Woman is an unspecified painting by the Mannerist artist Unknown. It dates from 1537 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

This painting is a half-length portrait of a woman in a black velvet dress.

Subject & Meaning

The subject's identity is unknown. She is depicted with dark hair pulled back, gazing slightly to the left, with her hands resting in her lap.

Technique & Style

The painting features smooth brushwork, creating a soft, luminous effect on the subject's face against a dark background. The use of subtle lighting and blending of edges, reminiscent of the sfumato technique, adds to the realism of the portrait.

Context

The portrait's style and technique were innovative for its time, as soft, nuanced lighting was not commonly used in 16th-century portraiture.