Engelse vrouw van stand, met vouwwaaier 1639 - 1640

This etching by Wenceslaus Hollar, a prolific 17th-century artist, portrays a Dutch woman of rank from the period 1639-1640. The detailed rendering of her elaborate dress and jewelry, including a pearl necklace and intricate bodice, offers a glimpse into the fashionable attire of the time. The woman's relaxed posture and elegant attire, including a lace collar and a delicate fan, convey her refined status. Hollar’s skill is evident in the meticulously etched lines that create a sense of texture and depth, resulting in a captivating portrait. The etching, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, provides an invaluable historical record of fashion and social customs during the Dutch Golden Age.