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Artwork

Portrait of Anna Wake

Anthony van Dyck , 1628

Portrait of Anna Wake, by Anthony van Dyck, oil, 1628
Portrait of Anna Wake, by Anthony van Dyck, oil, 1628

Portrait of Anna Wake is an oil painting by the Baroque artist Anthony van Dyck. It dates from 1628 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1628, this oil on canvas portrait presents Anna Wake, a woman of apparent social standing, rendered by the Flemish artist Anthony van Dyck. Executed during the early phase of van Dyck’s career, the work exemplifies the refined portraiture for which he later became renowned, and it now belongs to the Mauritshuis collection in The Hague.

Subject & Meaning

Anna Wake is shown wearing a dark gown trimmed with white lace, a delicate feather fan in her right hand, and an array of jewelry including pearls, a cross, and bracelets. Her hair is gathered back, and the warm brown backdrop emphasizes her poised demeanor, conveying a sense of cultivated elegance and personal piety typical of genteel portraiture of the period.

Technique & Style

Van Dyck employs a subtle chiaroscuro, allowing light to model the folds of the dress and the sheen of the pearls while the background recedes into muted tones. The brushwork is smooth and controlled, characteristic of Flemish Baroque portraiture, and the composition balances the sitter’s frontal presence with a slight turn, creating a three‑dimensional effect.

History & Provenance

The portrait entered the Mauritshuis collection in the 20th century, where it remains on display. Its provenance traces back to the Wake family, though documentation of its early ownership is limited. The work reflects van Dyck’s activity before his relocation to England, when he was establishing his reputation in the Southern Netherlands.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anthony van Dyck

Artist

Anthony van Dyck

Sir Anthony van Dyck (; Dutch: Antoon van Dijck ; 22 March 1599 – 9 December 1641) was a Flemish Baroque artist, who became the leading court painter in England after success in the Spanish Netherlands and Italy.

Mauritshuis

Museum

Mauritshuis

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Mauritshuis open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Mauritshuis. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.