Portrait of Susanna Völker 1588

This oil on canvas depicts Susanna Völker, and it was made by an anonymous artist. The inscription "Anno '88" and "Aeta 6" suggests it dates to 1588, when Susanna was six years old. The painting reflects the cultural values of the late 16th century, likely within a Northern European context. The formality of the portrait, the detailed rendering of Susanna's dress with its ruff collar, and the inclusion of her age all speak to the importance of social status and family lineage during this period. The absence of a known artist also speaks to the way that artistic labour was organised at that time. To truly understand this work, we might research the Völker family, or look at similar portraits of children from the era. Through these resources, we can understand this artwork not just as an image of a young girl, but as a reflection of a particular time and place.