Artwork
Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Ludolf de Jongh. It dates from 1657 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston.
About this work
Overview
This 17th-century oil painting, Portrait of a Woman, is a representative work of the Dutch Golden Age. Created around 1657, it is now part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene woman in a simple black dress with a white collar, holding a folded paper. Her dark hair is pulled back under a cap. The dark background highlights her face, conveying a sense of calmness.
Technique & Style
The artist achieved a gentle, calm expression on the subject's face through the use of soft shadows. Smooth brushstrokes characterize the painting, which exemplifies a restrained yet careful approach to portraiture.
History & Provenance
Ludolf de Jongh, the painter, was a multifaceted figure who worked as a merchant, civil guard officer, and sheriff in addition to his artistic pursuits. His work spans multiple genres, including portrait painting.
Context
The painting is a product of the Dutch Golden Age, a period of significant cultural and artistic growth in the Netherlands.
Artist & collection
Artist
Ludolf de Jongh or Ludolf Leendertsz. de Jongh (Overschie, 1616 – Hillegersberg, 1679) was a Dutch painter, known for his genre scenes, hunting scenes, history paintings, landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits. He was…



















