Portretten van Louise van Solms en een onbekende hooggeplaatste vrouw, beiden als herderin 1640

This engraving by Crispijn van de Passe II, dating from 1640, features two portraits of women, Louise van Solms and an unidentified noblewoman, both depicted as shepherdesses. The work is part of a series of engravings and reflects the fashion of the time to portray high-ranking women in symbolic roles, like the pastoral shepherdess, emphasizing virtue and simplicity. The delicate linework and realistic depiction of the women's features underscore van de Passe II's skill in creating detailed and evocative imagery. The small size of the engraving, measuring just 111 mm by 145 mm, highlights the detail and skill involved in its creation. This piece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into 17th-century Dutch portraiture and the use of symbolism to portray status and character.