Artwork

Portrait of a Seated Woman

Portrait of a Seated Woman, by Antonis Mor, oil, 1565
Portrait of a Seated Woman, by Antonis Mor, oil, 1565

Portrait of a Seated Woman is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Antonis Mor. It dates from 1565 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of a Seated Woman is a 1565 oil painting by Antonis Mor, a Netherlandish artist known for his formal portrait style. It is part of the Art Institute of Chicago's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman seated in a plain, dark room, dressed in formal attire with a black dress, white cap, and lace collar. She holds a gold chain, and her calm expression suggests a sense of dignity and composure.

Technique & Style

Mor's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that emphasizes contrasts between light and dark, draws attention to the subject's face and clothing. The artist's attention to detail is evident in the rendering of folds in her clothes and the subtle play of light on her red sleeves.

History & Provenance

The painting was executed in 1565, a period when Mor's work was gaining influence across European courts, particularly in Spain, due to its formal and dignified style, which was influenced by Titian.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Antonis Mor

Artist

Antonis Mor

Anthonis Mor, also known as Anthonis Mor van Dashorst and Antonio Moro (c. 1517 – 1577), was a Netherlandish portrait painter, much in demand by the courts of Europe. He has also been referred to as Antoon, Anthonius,…