Artwork

Portret van een vrouw

Portret van een vrouw, by Unknown, unspecified, 1665
Portret van een vrouw, by Unknown, unspecified, 1665

Portret van een vrouw is an unspecified painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Unknown. It dates from 1665 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The work is a portrait executed on parchment, depicting a youthful figure with light hair and a pale complexion.

About this work

Technique & Style

Created in 1665, this anonymous work is classified as a painting executed in the genre of a miniature.

Created in 1665, this anonymous work is classified as a painting executed in the genre of a miniature. The artist utilized parchment as the support material rather than traditional canvas or panel. The composition is characterized by its exceptionally small scale, measuring only 2.2 cm in height and 1.9 cm in width.

These compact dimensions and the choice of parchment are consistent with the miniaturist tradition, requiring precise handling to render the portrait on such a limited surface.

History & Provenance

The work, titled Portret van een vrouw, is an anonymous miniature painting executed on parchment. It was created in the year 1665. The piece is currently held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

No specific details regarding the original commission, the identity of the patron, or the specific circumstances of its creation history are provided in the available records.

The miniature is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it is also located. Painted on parchment in 1665, the work measures 2.2 cm in height and 1.9 cm in width. No specific inventory or accession number is recorded in the available sources, and no exhibition history is documented.

Overview

The work is a portrait executed on parchment, depicting a youthful figure with light hair and a pale complexion. The composition is centered within a dark oval that functions as a shadowy frame, directing attention to the sitter’s forward‑gazing eyes and slightly open mouth. The attire is minimal, showing only a soft‑collared neckline.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter appears to be a young woman, though the lack of identifying attributes leaves her identity uncertain. The direct gaze and subtle parting of the lips suggest a moment of quiet contemplation, while the restrained clothing may indicate modest social standing or a focus on the individual’s inner character rather than external status.

Hortense Mancini (1639-1715), hertogin van Mazarin
Hortense Mancini (1639-1715), hertogin van Mazarin, Unknown

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portret van een vrouw?

Portret van een vrouw was painted by Unknown in 1665.

Where can I see Portret van een vrouw?

Portret van een vrouw is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is Portret van een vrouw?

Portret van een vrouw is associated with Early Baroque Italian.