The artwork “Dorothea Berck” by Frans Hals was created in 1644 and is an oil painting on canvas. Falling under the Baroque art movement, the portrait measures 59.3 x 48 cm in size. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, the painting belongs to a private collection.
The portrait features a middle-aged woman with a direct gaze towards the viewer. She is depicted against a dark, neutral background that helps focus attention on her figure. Her attire is characteristic of the Baroque period, with a black dress and a large, elaborate white lace collar that stands out due to its intricate detailing and contrast against the darker tones. The woman has curly hair, partly covered by a dark cap, which frames her face. Her expression is serene and dignified, typical of portraiture at the time, aiming to capture both the appearance and the essence of the sitter’s character. Hals’ proficiency in capturing the textures of fabrics and the subtleties of human expression is evident in this work. The painting also includes a pendulum wall clock in the background and the date of the work inscribed on the upper left side, showcasing Hals’ skill in incorporating narrative and temporal elements within his compositions.
