Oude vrouw voor een spiegel, met twee dienstmeiden c. 1660

Moses ter Borch rendered this drawing of an old woman before a mirror with two maids, likely in the 17th century. Observe the mirror, a recurring motif throughout art history. More than a mere object, the mirror is a symbol of vanity and introspection. It reflects not just the physical image, but also the viewer's inner self, inviting contemplation on mortality and beauty. This recalls the vanitas paintings of the same era, where mirrors alongside skulls and wilting flowers served as potent symbols of life's transience. Consider how the mirror transforms over time. From Narcissus's fateful gaze into his reflection, to its presence in Renaissance portraits, its symbolism evolves. Here, the mirror reflects an aging woman, confronting her with her own mortality. The persistent allure of the mirror lies in its capacity to evoke deep psychological responses. We are drawn to mirrors because they hold the promise of self-discovery, yet also confront us with our impermanence, a duality that has fueled artistic expression for centuries.