Portrait Of A Lady, Half-length, Said To Be A Genoese 

This portrait, thought to be of a Genoese noblewoman, was painted by Anthony van Dyck, probably in the 1620s, using oil on canvas. Van Dyck was a master of capturing the textures of wealth. Look closely at the detail of the blue ruff, and the glint of the pearls and jewels. The skilled application of oil paint mimics the luxurious quality of these materials, demonstrating both the artistry and the affluence that was on display. Consider the labor involved in producing such an exquisite array of textiles and jewelry. Each element speaks to the complex systems of production, trade, and consumption that defined the lives of the wealthy in 17th-century Europe. By focusing on the material culture represented here, we gain insight into the society and economy of the time, moving beyond mere representation to understand the broader context of this elegant portrait.