Reproductie van een geschilderd portret van Anne-Frederick van der Bouchorst door Cornelis de Vos before 1878

This is Joseph Maes' reproduction of Cornelis de Vos’ painted portrait of Anne-Frederick van der Bouchorst. Although Maes created this reproduction in the late 19th, early 20th century, the original portrait captures a woman of the 17th century, an era marked by rigid social hierarchies and gender roles. Anne-Frederick’s attire, particularly the elaborate ruff, symbolizes her status and wealth. The ruff encloses the neck, literally restricting her movement. The gaze, directed away from the viewer, suggests a degree of detachment. Cornelis de Vos was working during a time when portraits were crucial in constructing and reinforcing social identities. In this context, portraits of women often emphasized their roles within the domestic sphere. Yet, the confidence of Anne-Frederick’s posture, while constrained by the fashion of the day, hints at an assertion of self. It is interesting to consider the emotional experience of Anne-Frederick, navigating the expectations of her time, and the artist, as well as the contemporary viewer of this reproduction.