Artwork

Portrait of a Lady of the Wentworth Family (Probably Jane Cheyne)

Portrait of a Lady of the Wentworth Family (Probably Jane Cheyne), by Hans Eworth, oil, 1563
Portrait of a Lady of the Wentworth Family (Probably Jane Cheyne), by Hans Eworth, oil, 1563

Portrait of a Lady of the Wentworth Family (Probably Jane Cheyne) is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Hans Eworth. It dates from 1563 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

This 1563 oil-on-panel portrait by Hans Eworth depicts a woman from a prominent English family, likely Jane Cheyne.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, dressed in a black gown with gold trim and adorned with jewelry, is identified as a member of the Wentworth family. Her attire and accessories, including a fan with a red handle, signify her high social status.

Technique & Style

Eworth's use of chiaroscuro creates a three-dimensional effect on the subject's face, while the gold details on her dress are accentuated by the light. The painting exemplifies the Mannerist style, characterized by its attention to detail and ornate decoration.

History & Provenance

Hans Eworth, a Flemish artist, created this portrait while working in Tudor London, where he catered to high-ranking figures and produced allegorical works alongside portraits.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Hans Eworth

Artist

Hans Eworth

Hans Eworth (or Ewouts; c. 1520–1574) was a Flemish painter active in England in the mid-16th century. Along with other exiled Flemings, he made a career in Tudor London, painting allegorical images as well as portraits…