The artwork titled “Woman Wearing a Costume of Northern Holland” was created by the renowned Baroque artist Rembrandt in 1636. With dimensions of 22 x 15 cm, this work falls within the genre of sketch and study, elucidating the artist’s interest in capturing the details of cultural attire. Currently, this piece is housed in the Teylers Museum located in Haarlem, Netherlands, where it continues to be appreciated for its historical and artistic value.
The portrayal in the artwork is rendered with delicate lines that document the intricate details of the traditional costume from Northern Holland. The subject is shown in a rear-view perspective, allowing the observer to focus on the attire and its craftsmanship. The costume includes a headpiece, indicative of the regional dress, and the garments are adorned with textures that suggest fabric folds and decorative elements. The drawing features a notable degree of shadowing, providing a sense of depth to the costume. On the left of the composition, one can discern the faint sketch of another figure, which contributes to the study-like nature of the piece. It appears that the artwork also bears the artist’s signature at the bottom right, a testament to its authenticity. Overall, this sketch by Rembrandt is a valuable insight into the cultural wear of the time and exemplifies the meticulous attention to detail that characterizes his work.