Portrait of Jan III, First Count of Egmond (1438–1516) and his wife Magdalena van Werdenburg, Countess of Egmond (1464–1538) by Master of Alkmaar

This is the "Portrait of Jan III, First Count of Egmond and his wife Magdalena van Werdenburg", painted around 1510 by the Master of Alkmaar. It showcases two figures of high status, each framed within an arch, revealing details about their lives and marriage.

Observe the distinguished count on the left, Jan III, with his weathered face and hands holding a document, suggesting his active role in governance. Beside him, his wife Magdalena, her serene face framed by a modest headdress, displays her marital status through a prominent wedding ring.

This double portrait, executed on wood, exemplifies the detailed realism of the Northern Renaissance. The Master of Alkmaar was a Dutch painter known for his panel paintings, including a notable series on the Seven Works of Mercy.

The painting offers a glimpse into the lives of nobility, using subtle visual cues like Jan III's Order of the Golden Fleece and Magdalena's ring to convey their identity and social standing.

Details

Jan III's face shows a life of command.
Jan III's face shows a life of command.
He holds a document of state.
He holds a document of state.
Magdalena looks down, serene and pious.
Magdalena looks down, serene and pious.
She wears a ring of fidelity.
She wears a ring of fidelity.
Transcript

A dignified count and his wife. Jan III's face shows a life of command. He holds a document of state. Magdalena looks down, serene and pious. Her wedding ring is a subtle symbol. She wears a ring of fidelity. Jan III wears the Order of the Golden Fleece. The portrait was painted in 1510.