Fine Art

Woman at a Mirror — History & Facts

A young boy holds up a mirror for the woman in the satin gown, who gazes upward at a far more plainly dressed woman. In the 17th century, mirrors symbolized vanity and the transience of life. This painting serves as a cautionary reminder: youth and beauty are fleeting.

Ter Borch’s sister, Gesina, also an artist, probably modelled for both women, and his brother Moses for the boy.

More Artworks by Gerard ter Borch (II)

Historical scene of delegates in rich costumes, oil on copper by Gerard ter Borch.

Ratification of the Peace of Münster between Spain and the Dutch Republic in the Town Hall of Münster, 15 May 1648

Gerard ter Borch (II)

Genre scene of a standing woman with two guests, oil on canvas by Gerard ter Borch

Gallant Conversation, Known as ‘The Paternal Admonition’

Gerard ter Borch (II)

Portrait of Helena van der Schalcke, oil on panel by Gerard ter Borch, featuring a child in a silk dress.

Helena van der Schalcke

Gerard ter Borch (II)

Memorial Portrait of Moses ter Borch, oil on canvas by Gerard ter Borch

Memorial Portrait of Moses ter Borch

Gerard ter Borch (II)

Portrait of a peasant girl holding a printed sheet, oil on panel by Gerard ter Borch

Woman in Peasant Costume

Gerard ter Borch (II)

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More Genre Scene Art

A group of Haarlem officers in colorful sashes gathers around a banquet table set with glassware, plates, and a large pie, with a patterned banner behind them.

Banquet of the Officers of the St George Civic Guard

Frans Hals

A man in a feathered hat smiles and raises a glass while holding a woman on his lap, both dressed in elaborate 17th-century clothing with a table of objects nearby.

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son

Rembrandt van Rijn

A lively outdoor scene shows couples dancing and groups seated at tables under trees, with figures in flowing dresses and straw hats.

Bal du moulin de la Galette

Pierre-Auguste Renoir

A dancer in a vivid green dress stands with hands on hips facing forward, surrounded by figures in brown, black, and pink clothing with a balcony and loosely sketched background.

Quadrille at the Moulin Rouge

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec

A Burial at Ornans

A Burial at Ornans

Gustave Courbet

Two Tahitian women sit against a yellow and blue background; one wears a pale green wrap and red skirt, the other a pink dress with white trim and necklace.

When Will You Marry?

Paul Gauguin

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