Artwork
Portrait of a lady in a ruff, dated 1590

Portrait of a lady in a ruff, dated 1590 is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Lorenz Strauch. It dates from 1596 and is held in the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections.
About this work
She wears a stiff white collar (a ruff) around her neck, a black dress with white lace trim, and a dark hat with a wire frame.
This painting shows a woman standing in front of a dark curtain. She wears a stiff white collar (a ruff) around her neck, a black dress with white lace trim, and a dark hat with a wire frame. Her hands rest on her stomach, and a chain hangs from her neck.
The date "Anno 1590" is written in the corner, showing this was painted in 1590. The dark background makes her clothes and face stand out sharply.
Next, look up chiaroscuro to see how artists use light and shadow like this.
Subject & Meaning
The work depicts Princess Anna of Sweden, identified as the primary subject of this 1590 portrait by Lorenz Strauch. As a formal representation of royalty, the painting functions as a dynastic record, capturing the likeness of the Swedish princess within the context of late sixteenth-century courtly tradition. The title references the subject's attire, specifically the ruff, a stiffened collar that served as a prominent marker of high social status and fashion during this era.
By portraying Anna in such distinctive garments, the artist emphasizes her noble rank and adherence to contemporary aristocratic aesthetics. The piece remains part of the Bavarian State Painting Collections, housed in the Alte Pinakothek, preserving its historical role as a visual document of European nobility.
Technique & Style
Executed in 1590, this portrait is an oil painting on canvas. The work measures 116.5 cm in height and 89.2 cm in width. Stylistically, it functions as a formal portrait depicting Princess Anna of Sweden, characterized by the subject's attire featuring a ruff.
The piece is currently held within the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections at the Alte Pinakothek.
History & Provenance
Created in 1590, this oil painting on canvas was executed by Lorenz Strauch. The work depicts Princess Anna of Sweden, who serves as its primary subject. Regarding its ownership history, the portrait is held within the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections. It is currently housed at the Alte Pinakothek, where it remains part of the institution's holdings.
Overview
This oil painting, dated 1590, is a portrait by Lorenz Strauch. It is a representation of a woman from the late 16th century, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing detail and using contrast.
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