Tartaarse vrouw 1569

This is Ferando Bertelli’s drawing of a ‘Tartar Woman’ whose date of creation is unknown. The delicate lines of the drawing offer us a glimpse into how people in 16th or 17th century Europe viewed those from distant lands. The term ‘Tartar’ was often used to refer to people from Central Asia and other parts of Eurasia. This drawing encapsulates the historical fascination, and sometimes misunderstanding, of different cultures. Notice how the woman’s attire, with its layers and unique head covering, distinguishes her from the European norm. She appears to be touching her lip with her finger, what does this gesture mean? What stories and rumors did the artist know about Tartar women? Bertelli's work invites us to reflect on the complexities of cultural representation. It serves as a reminder of how identity is shaped and perceived across different cultural contexts. This drawing is not just an image; it's a silent narrative of encounters, perceptions, and the human desire to understand the "other."