Artwork
Portrait of Mary II Stuart (1662-1695)
Portrait of Mary II Stuart (1662-1695) is an unspecified painting by Richard Gibson. It dates from 1670 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
This small, round portrait on cardboard depicts a young woman, identified as Mary II Stuart, created around 1670 by Richard Gibson, a court painter and dwarf known for his miniature works.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is shown with curly brown hair, wearing a light blue dress and pearl necklace, set against a dark blue background with a faint landscape, presenting a serene and youthful image.
Technique & Style
Gibson used cardboard, an unconventional medium for portraits at the time, and applied soft colors that have slightly faded over time, particularly in the subject's face.
History & Provenance
The portrait is part of the Rijksmuseum collection and was created by Gibson, who served in the courts of several English monarchs, including Charles I, Oliver Cromwell, Charles II, and later William III and Mary II.
Artist & collection
Artist
Richard Gibson (1615 – 23 July 1690), known as "Dwarf Gibson", was an English painter of portrait miniatures and a court dwarf in England during the reigns of Charles I, Oliver Cromwell, Charles II, and William III and Mary II.
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Portret van een vrouw
Amalie of Solms (1602-1675)
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Portrait of a Woman
Portrait of Henriëtte Maria of France (1609-1669), wife of Charles I of England
Portrait of a Woman
Portrait of a woman, possibly Anne Hyde, first wife of James II of England
Unknown woman
Mary II Stuart