Artwork
Portrait of a young woman
Portrait of a young woman is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Suze Robertson. It dates from 1900 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1900 by Dutch painter Suze Robertson, this oil portrait presents a young woman in profile, her gaze directed downward. The composition is dominated by a dark, almost monochrome background that isolates the figure, allowing the subtle coloration of her skin and the texture of her hair to become the focal point. The work belongs to the Rijksmuseum’s permanent collection.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is depicted from the side, her expression subdued and introspective, suggesting a moment of private contemplation. The limited palette and the contrast between the illuminated face and the surrounding shadows emphasize the psychological presence of the figure rather than narrative detail, aligning the portrait with early twentieth‑century explorations of inner life.
Technique & Style
Robertson employs a vigorous application of paint, particularly evident in the thick, tactile strokes that render the hair and the surrounding darkness. The surface shows areas of impasto, creating a palpable texture, while the skin tones are rendered with delicate, pinkish hues. The overall effect balances a loose, almost unfinished handling with a clear focus on form and light.
History & Provenance
Since its completion, the painting has remained in the Netherlands, entering the Rijksmuseum’s holdings where it is displayed as part of the museum’s representation of Dutch post‑impressionist portraiture. The work’s acquisition reflects the institution’s interest in documenting the contributions of women artists associated with the Amsterdamse Joffers.
Context
Suze Robertson was a member of the Amsterdamse Joffers, a group of female artists active in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries who pursued a modern approach within a traditionally conservative art scene. This portrait exemplifies the post‑impressionist tendencies of the period, merging expressive brushwork with a restrained color scheme to convey personal mood over decorative detail.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Suze Robertson (17 December 1855 – 18 October 1922) was a Dutch painter. She belonged to a group of artists known as the Amsterdamse Joffers.
