Portrait of Suzanna Moor (1608-57) after 1629

This is a portrait of Suzanna Moor, made in the 17th century by an anonymous artist. We can situate this artwork within the historical and social contexts of the Dutch Golden Age, a period of significant economic prosperity and cultural flourishing in the Netherlands. The portrait captures Suzanna's identity as a woman of the Dutch elite, her black dress and the elaborate ruff emphasizing her status. Her somber attire suggests a sense of Protestant austerity. The painting gives insight into the complex interplay between gender, class, and religious identity during the 17th century. Note the intense gaze, the position of her hands holding a fur muff, and the symmetry of the composition, which invite us to consider the emotional and experiential dimensions of Suzanna’s life, and what it meant to be a woman during this era. This artwork subtly shapes and reflects societal issues of the time, inviting us to reflect on the emotional and personal dimensions of identity within historical contexts.