The artwork “Portrait of a Woman with a Fan” was created by the artist Frans Hals in the year 1640. This painting is an oil on canvas and is part of the Baroque art movement. The dimensions of the artwork are 79.8 x 59 cm. As indicated by the genre, it is a portrait of a woman, and it is housed in the National Gallery located in London, UK.
The painting depicts a mature woman dressed in period attire. Her gaze meets the viewer directly, conveying a sense of poise and self-assuredness. The woman’s attire is detailed and rich, as she wears a dark dress with intricate lace and embellishments, commonly associated with the styles of the 17th century. Around her shoulders is a delicate, translucent shawl with a detailed floral pattern. One of the key features that give the painting its name is the fan she holds in her hands, which are also adorned with multiple rings, indicating a sense of wealth and status. Additionally, her cuffs and the collar of her garment feature intricate lace detailing, typical of the baroque fashion. The background is muted, which helps to emphasize the clarity and detail of the subject. Frans Hals is known for his lively and spirited portrait style, and this painting is a fine example of his ability to capture the personality and social stature of his subjects through his masterful use of oil paint.
