Margareta Snyders 1620

Anthony van Dyck painted this portrait of Margareta Snyders, a member of the Antwerp elite, with oil on canvas. In the 17th century, portraiture was the domain of the upper classes, and this painting is no exception. Van Dyck, who worked in Antwerp and then London, was known for his portraits of wealthy patrons. Here, Snyders is adorned in the attire of her class, with a large ruff, lace cuffs, and jewelry. Her posture is both elegant and demure. Van Dyck was a leading painter of the Flemish Baroque style, which was characterized by its opulence. His success reflects the increasing commercialization of art and the rising status of the artist. This painting is less a window into the soul of the sitter than a display of wealth and social standing. To understand its significance fully, we might consult records of the Snyders family, histories of Antwerp, and studies of fashion in the 17th century. All these resources can give us more context.