Artwork

The blond shepherdess

The blond shepherdess, by Paulus Moreelse, oil, 1624
The blond shepherdess, by Paulus Moreelse, oil, 1624

The blond shepherdess is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Paulus Moreelse. It dates from 1624 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.

About this work

Overview

The blond shepherdess is a 1624 oil painting by Paulus Moreelse, held at the Alte Pinakothek.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a serene woman with golden hair, dressed in pastoral attire, including a straw hat adorned with flowers and a staff, suggesting a shepherdess.

Technique & Style

Moreelse employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts between light and dark to create a soft glow on the subject's skin, while the dark background and colorful hat flowers add depth and visual interest.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paulus Moreelse

Artist

Paulus Moreelse

Paulus Moreelse (1571–1638) was a Dutch artist, born in Utrecht.