Burgher's Wife of Bern 1644 - 1650

Wenceslaus Hollar etched this portrait of a Burgher's Wife of Bern, capturing the fashion of its time with meticulous detail. The woman's headdress, a stark white veil cascading from beneath a tall, cylindrical hat, immediately draws our attention. This isn't merely a fashion statement; it's a symbol, echoing the veils of nuns or widows, representing modesty and a certain social standing. The gesture of her hands, clasped gently at her waist, speaks volumes. Consider how similar gestures appear in depictions of saints or royalty across centuries—a controlled display of dignity and composure. Yet, there’s also a hint of vulnerability in the way she holds herself. This very gesture, passed down through the ages, can be seen in ancient sculptures and Renaissance portraits, each time subtly shifting in meaning, yet always hinting at an underlying emotional state. It's a cyclical progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.