The artwork titled “Portrait of a Woman,” created by Frans Hals in 1635, is a distinguished portrayal from the Baroque art movement. This portrait, falling under the genre of portraiture, is currently housed in the esteemed Frick Collection located in New York City, NY, USA.
In this artwork, a mature woman is depicted seated with a composed and dignified expression. She is attired in a dark, voluminous dress typical of the period, adorned with intricate detailing. Around her neck, she wears a large, white ruff, a customary fashion element of the Baroque era. Her hands rest gently on her lap, with one hand holding a book, suggesting literacy or a contemplative nature. The composition and lighting focus the viewer’s attention on her face, which exhibits a lifelike and delicate rendering. The somber color palette and precise brushstrokes in the background highlight the sitter, emphasizing her prominence and creating a sense of depth and realism.
