Susanna van Collen née Mogge and her daughter 1776

Hermanus Numan painted Susanna van Collen née Mogge and her daughter with oil on canvas. We see a world of wealth and domesticity, painted during a time of social and political upheaval in Europe. Susanna, adorned in an elaborate blue gown, sits poised with a jewelry box, while her daughter stands nearby. Consider the significance of this intimate mother-daughter portrait within the context of 18th-century Dutch society, where family lineage and social standing were paramount. Susanna's dress and the opulent interior speak volumes about her class. The details, from the towering wig to the meticulously decorated room, reflect a culture deeply invested in appearances and status. But this is also a tender scene, capturing a moment of connection between mother and child. What does it mean to portray women not merely as symbols of status, but as individuals with complex emotional lives? This artwork serves as a window into the private lives of women in the Dutch elite, offering a glimpse of their roles, expectations, and relationships.