Portrait of Maria Justina von Lersner c. 1700 - 1730

This is a portrait of Maria Justina von Lersner made by an anonymous artist. It now resides in the Städel Museum. Immediately noticeable is the stark contrast between the dark background and the lighter tones of the subject's face and dress, drawing our eye directly to her. The artist masterfully uses a limited palette to create depth and volume. Notice how the textures, from the soft curls of her hair to the rich velvet shawl, are rendered with subtle variations in brushstroke. The composition adheres to a conventional portrait format, yet there's an intriguing tension between the subject's direct gaze and the asymmetry of her pose. This challenges the viewer to question the codes of representation and the power dynamics inherent in portraiture. The contrast between light and shadow is not merely decorative; it creates an atmospheric depth that invites introspection. The artist uses formal elements to engage in a broader dialogue about identity, representation, and the subtle ways in which art can question established norms.