Woman with a Broom (dummy board)
1640
unspecified
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1640
unspecified
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting depicts a woman in a long, dark green dress with a white apron and a ruffled collar. She is holding a broom in her right hand, with her left hand resting on her hip. The woman's dark hair is covered by a white cap. The woman is shown in a formal, stiff pose, which was typical of portrait paintings during this time period. Her dress and apron are intricately detailed, with folds and creases that give the impression of texture and depth. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of volume and dimensionality, drawing the viewer's eye to the woman's face and hands. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and domesticity. To learn more about this style, look up chiaroscuro.
