Artwork

Portrait of a Woman

Portrait of a Woman, by Ludolf de Jongh, oil, 1657
Portrait of a Woman, by Ludolf de Jongh, oil, 1657

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

Portrait of Ludolf de Jongh

Artist

Ludolf de Jongh

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…