Artwork

Portrait of Margarita Cassier

Portrait of Margarita Cassier, by Unknown, oil, 1616
Portrait of Margarita Cassier, by Unknown, oil, 1616

Portrait of Margarita Cassier is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Unknown. It dates from 1616 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Margarita Cassier is an oil painting depicting a woman seated in a chair, distinguished by its use of chiaroscuro lighting and a somber, elegant color palette.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Margarita Cassier, is portrayed in a state of quiet contemplation, her attention focused on a small, unidentified object in her right hand. Her attire suggests refinement without opulence.

Technique & Style

The painting employs chiaroscuro, with strong side lighting illuminating the subject's face, creating a striking contrast between her glowing skin and the dark, shadowy background and clothing.

Context

The work's aesthetic aligns with 17th-century European portraiture traditions, emphasizing the sitter's character through subtle expression and the suggestive use of light.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.