Artwork
Girl at the mirror
Girl at the mirror is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Paulus Moreelse. It dates from 1632 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.
About this work
History & Provenance
The provided sources do not contain specific inventory or accession numbers for the piece, nor do they list any details regarding its exhibition history.
The painting was created by Paulus Moreelse in 1632, as indicated by the artist’s dated inscription on the work.
The earliest documented owner was Lucretia Johanna van Winter, who later transferred it to Hendrik Six van Hillegom. The canvas subsequently passed through the Six family: it descended to Jan Pieter Six VI, then to Pieter Hendrik Six van Vromade, and finally to Jan Six van Vromade. The painting has remained in the collection of the Six family since the seventeenth century.
It entered the Rijksmuseum’s holdings as part of the bequest from Jan Six van Vromade.
The painting Girl at the Mirror, created by Paulus Moreelse in 1632, is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The work is executed in oil on canvas and measures 87 cm in height by 73 cm in width. Prior to its current location, the artwork was owned by a succession of private collectors, including Lucretia Johanna van Winter, Hendrik Six van Hillegom, Jan Pieter Six VI, Pieter Hendrik Six van Vromade, and Jan Six van Vromade.
The provided sources do not contain specific inventory or accession numbers for the piece, nor do they list any details regarding its exhibition history.
Overview
Girl at the Mirror is a 1632 oil painting by Paulus Moreelse, housed in the Rijksmuseum. The work depicts a woman preparing in front of a mirror, with a secondary, reflected figure assisting her.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays a moment of personal attention, contrasting the relaxed, direct figure with her mirrored counterpart, who actively aids in her preparation, introducing a sense of dual perspective on a solitary activity.
Technique & Style
Moreelse employs chiaroscuro, juxtaposing strong shadows (notably in the dark background and table) with soft, glowing light on the subject's face, enhancing depth and intimacy. The composition's layering (physical and reflected spaces) adds complexity.
Context
As a genre scene, 'Girl at the Mirror' reflects 17th-century Dutch interests in everyday life, yet its use of reflection and dual action sets it apart from more straightforward depictions of daily activities.
Legacy
While specific influences or direct artistic lineage are not detailed here, the painting's thoughtful composition and lighting techniques contribute to its place within the broader canon of Dutch Golden Age painting.
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Artist & collection
