Self-portrait 1661

aged paper

toned paper

antique

coloured pencil

traditional art medium

19th century

watercolour illustration

pencil art

mixed media

watercolor

"Self-portrait" is a watercolor painting created by Dutch artist Gesina ter Borch in 1661. It showcases her signature style of detailed and realistic portraiture. The painting features the artist herself, dressed in a black gown with a white lace collar, her blonde hair pulled back and a pearl earring adorning her ear. She holds a decorative fan in her right hand, a common accessory during the 17th century. The blue drapery in the background adds depth to the composition, contrasting with the lighter tones of her skin and clothing. This self-portrait, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, provides a glimpse into the life and artistry of Gesina ter Borch, one of the most prominent female artists of her time.

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rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

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Like other members of her illustrious artist family, Gesina ter Borch was a gifted artist. Three albums assembled by her have been preserved, including a scrapbook containing portraits by her of well-to-do people in everyday settings. Young women holding fans feature in many of these watercolours, including this self-portrait. The VOC imported Chinese fans from the beginning of the 17th century. Even though they were also subsequently made in the northern Netherlands, fans continued to be seen as an exotic accessory.