Artwork
Woman selling herring
Woman selling herring is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Godfried Schalcken. It dates from 1689 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Woman selling herring is a 1689 oil painting by Godfried Schalcken, a Dutch artist known for his genre scenes and portraits. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a woman, dressed in a white cap, yellowish-brown dress, and red sash, holding a herring by its tail. A basket of fish is beside her, and she appears poised to make a sale. The scene is a typical example of a genre painting, capturing everyday life.
Technique & Style
Schalcken's skillful rendering of light and texture is evident in the painting. The herring's scales catch the light, creating a realistic effect. The artist's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that uses strong contrasts between light and dark, adds depth to the composition.
Artist & collection
Artist
Godfried Schalcken (8 October 1643 – 16 November 1706) was a Dutch artist who specialized in genre paintings and portraits.
