The artwork, named “Portrait of Aletta Hanemans,” was created by the eminent artist Frans Hals in 1625. This masterpiece, rendered in oil on canvas, is a quintessential example of Baroque portraiture. Measuring 123.8 by 98.3 centimeters, the portrait resides in the Mauritshuis in The Hague, Netherlands.
The artwork presents a detailed and refined depiction of Aletta Hanemans, capturing her in opulent attire that reflects her social standing and the fashion of the time. She is dressed in a richly embroidered bodice and a distinctive ruffled collar, which was a hallmark of the period’s fashion. Her gaze, directed towards the viewer, along with her composed posture, conveys a sense of dignity and grace. The background is kept relatively simple, ensuring that the attention remains focused on the subject. The meticulousness in the portrayal of the textures, such as the lace and fabric, highlights Frans Hals’ expertise and his contribution to the Baroque movement’s emphasis on realism and detail in portraiture.
