Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman, by Dirck van Santvoort, unspecified, 1655
Portrait of a Woman, by Dirck van Santvoort, unspecified, 1655

Portrait of a Woman is an unspecified painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Dirck van Santvoort. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.

About this work

Overview

Painted by Dirck van Santvoort around 1655, Portrait of a Woman is a representative example of Dutch portraiture from the mid-17th century.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a woman dressed in finery, her dark hair and white attire adorned with pearls, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation through her downward gaze and subdued expression.

Technique & Style

The artist's realistic rendering of the subject's face is complemented by the use of chiaroscuro, which creates a sense of depth and dimensionality in the composition.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held at the Museum of Fine Arts Boston, though its earlier history and the identity of the sitter remain unknown.

Artist & collection

Artist

Dirck van Santvoort

Dirck van Santvoort (1610–1680) was a Dutch artist, born in Amsterdam.