Artwork

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady, by Ludolf Bakhuizen, oil, 1707
An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady, by Ludolf Bakhuizen, oil, 1707

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Ludolf Bakhuizen. It dates from 1707 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

The composition centers on the relationship between creator and subject, framing portrait-making as both a technical process and a social encounter.

The painting depicts an artist seated in his studio, actively painting the portrait of a seated lady. The scene emphasizes the act of portraiture itself, with the artist positioned at an easel and the subject turned toward the viewer. The interior setting, suggested by the presence of the easel and the focused exchange between artist and sitter, underscores the professional and social dynamics of commissioned portrait painting in the early 18th century.

The composition centers on the relationship between creator and subject, framing portrait-making as both a technical process and a social encounter.

Technique & Style

Executed in 1707, this work by Ludolf Bakhuizen is an oil painting on canvas. The composition depicts an artist within a studio setting, actively engaged in creating a portrait of a female subject. Key elements of the scene include the painter, the woman being portrayed, and an easel. The painting measures 84 cm in height and 70 cm in width.

History & Provenance

The painting titled An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady was created by Ludolf Bakhuizen in 1707. Executed in oil on canvas, the work measures 84 cm in height and 70 cm in width. It currently belongs to the collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

No specific details regarding the original commission, the identity of the initial patron, or the intermediate ownership chain prior to its arrival at the museum are provided in the available records. The creation history is limited to the confirmed date of 1707 and the artist's attribution.

The painting is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection in Amsterdam, where it is catalogued as an oil on canvas portrait completed in 1707 by Ludolf Bakhuizen. The work measures 84 cm in height and 70 cm in width and is classified as a portrait genre piece. Its provenance records indicate that it has remained in the Rijksmuseum since its acquisition, though specific inventory or accession numbers are not detailed in the available documentation.

Exhibition records are not mentioned in the supplied sources, suggesting that the painting's public display history has not been documented within the provided references.

Overview

Ludolf Bakhuizen, a Dutch painter recognized primarily for his seascapes, created An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady in 1707. This oil painting offers a glimpse into an artist's workspace, capturing a moment of creative endeavor. Executed late in Bakhuizen's career, the work showcases a different facet of his artistic output, moving away from his typical maritime themes to depict an intimate interior scene.

The Painter in his Studio
The Painter in his Studio, Pietro Longhi

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ludolf Bakhuizen

Artist

Ludolf Bakhuizen

Ludolf Bakhuizen (28 December 1630 or 1632 – 7 November 1708) was a German-born Dutch painter, draughtsman, calligrapher and printmaker.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Rijksmuseum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady?

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady was painted by Ludolf Bakhuizen in 1707-01-01.

Where can I see An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady?

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady?

An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady?

Museum-quality prints of An artist in his studio, painting the portrait of a lady are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.