Portrait of Maria van Rysselberghe 1926

Editor: We're looking at Theo van Rysselberghe’s "Portrait of Maria van Rysselberghe," painted in 1926. It's an oil painting and what strikes me first is the softness of the colours, and this kind of dreamlike quality in the background. What catches your eye about this portrait? Curator: Oh, absolutely. It feels like peering into a cherished memory, doesn't it? Van Rysselberghe’s gaze feels intensely personal here. The way he’s used these dappled, almost pointillist strokes in the background… they create this sense of shimmering intimacy, don't you think? The entire composition seems to breathe. Editor: It definitely does. What do you make of her rather unusual bowtie? Curator: Isn’t it marvellous? Defiantly chic! This wasn’t a commission, it was a depiction of someone he loved. Do you think that sartorial quirk speaks to the intimate and respectful relationship between artist and subject? What kind of woman wears a bow tie in the 20s, eh? Someone memorable. Editor: It feels quite modern in that way, doesn't it? Like the artist saw her for who she really was and wanted that to come across. The overall effect is someone individual, not a society stereotype. I didn't pick up that feeling of intimacy at first. Curator: Exactly! Van Rysselberghe understood the power of quiet observation. His Maria almost steps out of time, offering us a glimpse into the soul, wouldn’t you agree? He's created this feeling of immediacy, like she could turn and speak at any moment. This picture is about tenderness as much as visibility. Editor: Definitely. Thank you. That really changed how I look at this work!