Artwork
Portret van een dame
Portret van een dame is an ivory painting. It dates from 1795 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The work is a portrait rendered on a sheet of ivory, showing a seated woman against a dark backdrop.
About this work
Overview
The work is a portrait rendered on a sheet of ivory, showing a seated woman against a dark backdrop. She is presented in a three‑quarter view, her long, curly hair gathered in an up‑do with loose tendrils framing her face. The figure wears a white gown with a low neckline, accented by a blue sash at the waist and a single brooch on her left shoulder.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter appears to be a woman of some standing, suggested by the pearls in her hair and the refined dress. The restrained colour scheme—white, blue and the muted darkness behind—focuses attention on her expression and the delicate jewellery, hinting at themes of elegance and modesty common in portraiture of the period.
Technique & Style
Executed on ivory, the artist employs a delicate layering of translucent pigments, allowing the smooth surface to convey subtle tonal shifts. Chiaroscuro modelling creates depth, with light falling on the face and garment while the background recedes into shadow. The fine brushwork captures the texture of hair and fabric, while the ivory base lends a luminous quality to the overall image.
Artist & collection
