Who painted Rachel, Countess of Middlesex?

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex was painted by Pierre Lombard in 1660.

Where can I see Rachel, Countess of Middlesex?

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Rachel, Countess of Middlesex?

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex

Pierre Lombard , 1660

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex is an ink print by the Baroque artist Pierre Lombard. It dates from 1660 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Rachel, Countess of Middlesex is a print created around 1660 by Pierre Lombard, executed in etching and engraving on laid paper. The work portrays a noblewoman in a sumptuous attire, set against a plain background to emphasize her figure.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Rachel, Countess of Middlesex, is depicted in a manner reflecting her high social status. Adornments such as a pearl necklace, earrings, and pearls in her curly hair signify wealth and nobility. A bouquet of flowers and a decorative bow on her chest add to the portrayal of elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

The print combines etching and engraving techniques, characteristic of the Baroque period's printmaking. The style, popular during this era, is evident in the detailed rendering of textures, particularly the shiny fabric of her dress, and the dramatic emphasis on the subject through the plain background.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1660 by Pierre Lombard, specific details about the print's history and ownership prior to its current location are not provided.

Context

This etching aligns with the artistic trends of the Baroque period, where such portraits served to highlight the status and elegance of the nobility. The plain background was a common device to focus attention on the subject.

Legacy

While the broader impact or influence of this specific print by Pierre Lombard is not detailed, it remains representative of Baroque-era printmaking and the tradition of portraying nobility in 17th-century Europe.