Portrait of a Seated Woman (1660 – 1666) by Frans Hals

Portrait of a Seated Woman - Frans Hals - 1660 - 1666

Artwork Information

TitlePortrait of a Seated Woman
ArtistFrans Hals
Date1660 - 1666
Mediumoil,panel
Dimensions44.5 x 34.3 cm
Art MovementBaroque

About Portrait of a Seated Woman

Frans Hals, a master of portraiture in the 17th century, created the “Portrait of a Seated Woman” between 1660 and 1666. This work is an exemplar of Hals’ ability to capture the essence of his subjects with a sense of immediacy and vitality. The painting, executed in the Baroque style, depicts an unknown woman whose quiet dignity contrasts with the more dynamic poses often seen in Hals’ male portraits.

The dimensions of this artwork are 44.5 x 34.3 cm, and it was painted using oil on panel. The “Portrait of a Seated Woman” is celebrated for its portrayal of the sitter’s character and the artist’s skillful use of light and shadow to model her features. Hals’ technique involved working directly onto the canvas without preliminary drawings, allowing him to capture fleeting expressions with swift brushstrokes.

This portrait is part of Hals’ extensive oeuvre, which includes approximately 200 surviving paintings. His work is characterized by a focus on individuality and the transitory nature of human expression. Hals preferred to paint portraits over other genres, and his sitters are often depicted against plain backgrounds to emphasize their faces and expressions.

The “Portrait of a Seated Woman” is a testament to Frans Hals’ legacy as one of the greatest portraitists of his time, capturing the spirit of his subjects with a unique blend of spontaneity and precision.

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