Artwork
Joanna Cornelia Ziesenis-Wattier (1762-1827). Toneelspeelster, in de rol van Elfride in het gelijknamige toneelstuk van Friedrich Justin Bertuch
Joanna Cornelia Ziesenis-Wattier (1762-1827). Toneelspeelster, in de rol van Elfride in het gelijknamige toneelstuk van Friedrich Justin Bertuch is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Johann Baptist Scheffer. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Johann Baptist Scheffer’s 1800 oil portrait presents Dutch actress Johanna Cornelia Ziesenis‑Wattier in the role of Elfride from Friedrich Justin Bertuch’s play. Executed in a neoclassical style, the work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is shown in a white dress with a blue sash, gold jewelry and loosely curled dark hair. Her right hand rests on her chest while she looks directly at the viewer, conveying the poise and emotional intensity associated with the theatrical character of Elfride.
Technique & Style
Scheffer employs a restrained palette, allowing the luminous white of the gown to contrast with a darker background. Subtle modeling of flesh tones and careful rendering of fabric folds demonstrate his skill in creating depth and texture within a neoclassical framework.
History & Provenance
Born in Germany, Scheffer trained under Johann Friedrich August Tischbein and settled in Utrecht from 1788 before moving to Dordrecht, where he married miniature painter Cornelia Lamme in 1794. The portrait entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings as part of its Dutch art collection.
Context
The painting reflects early‑19th‑century Dutch theatrical culture, documenting a prominent actress in a contemporary stage role. It also illustrates the period’s interest in portraying cultural figures with the dignified composure typical of neoclassical portraiture.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johann or Johan Bernard Scheffer (also Jean Baptist Scheffer; 1764 – 30 June 1809) was a German-born painter and etcher active in the Netherlands and the father of the painter Ary Scheffer.
