Artwork

Bildnis der Gattin des Heinrich Escher, geborene von Meiss von Teufen

Bildnis der Gattin des Heinrich Escher, geborene von Meiss von Teufen is an oil painting by Conrad Meyer. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthaus Zürich.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created by Conrad Meyer in 1660, is a portrait of a woman from Zürich's historical elite. It is part of the Kunsthaus Zürich collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts the wife of Heinrich Escher, an older woman dressed in formal attire, with her hands clasped together and adorned with jewelry. Her dark clothing and lace head covering convey a sense of dignity and restraint.

Technique & Style

Meyer employed chiaroscuro to create depth and dimension, illuminating the subject's face against a dark background. The use of oil paint allowed for detailed rendering of textures, such as the lace and jewelry.

History & Provenance

Conrad Meyer, a Swiss painter and engraver, was trained by Matthäus Merian. He initially focused on portrait and landscape painting before turning to copper engravings. This work is representative of his early career as a portrait painter.