The artwork titled “Portrait of a Young Woman” was painted by Frans Hals around 1655 to 1660. This oil on canvas painting belongs to the Baroque art movement and measures approximately 65 x 45 cm. It is a genre portrait and is currently housed in the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum in Madrid, Spain.
The painting depicts a young woman looking slightly to the side, gazing softly towards the viewer. Her facial expression is tranquil and composed. She wears a traditional head covering and a white collar that is crisp and voluminous, both typical of the period’s fashion, standing out against a dark, subdued background. The woman’s attire suggests modesty and indicates the clothing style of the Dutch middle class during the 17th century. Her hands are gently clasped in front of her, drawing attention to the center of the composition. The portrait exhibits Hals’s characteristic swift brushstrokes, especially notable in the white accents of the collar and headgear. The intimate scale and directness of the painting invite an engaging viewing experience, showcasing Hals’s talent for capturing the essence of his subjects with both respect and immediacy.
