Portrait of a Woman — History & Facts
In Portrait of a Woman, the viewer is greeted by a serene figure of a woman dressed in rich fabrics. The colors are warm, with deep reds and golds dominating the palette. Her expression is calm yet engaging, inviting the viewer to ponder her story.
The background is softly blurred, drawing attention to her face and attire. The painting is executed in oil on canvas, a common medium during the Dutch Golden Age. The artist employs a technique that highlights the textures of the fabrics, showcasing his skill in rendering light and shadow. The dimensions are approximately 70 x 90 cm, making it a sizable portrait.
The detailed brushwork adds depth to her features and the intricate patterns of her clothing. Nicolaes Maes was a prominent Dutch painter, known for his portraits and genre scenes. This work, created in the 1660s, reflects the artist's transition from genre painting to portraiture. An interesting fact about this painting is that it exemplifies the influence of Rembrandt, particularly in the use of light to enhance the subject's presence.
Today, it is housed in the Mauritshuis, a museum renowned for its collection of Dutch masterpieces.
More Artworks by Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of George Bredehoff de Vicq as Ganymede
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of a Man
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of a Lady Seated By a Fountain
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of a Man
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of a Man
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of a Man
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of Catharina Pottey, Sister of Willem and Sara Pottey
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of four Children
Nicolaes Maes

Portrait of Jacob Trip
Nicolaes Maes

Ingena Rotterdam (died 1704), Betrothed of Admiral Jacob Binkes
Nicolaes Maes






