A Genoese Lady with Her Child c. 1623 - 1625

Anthony van Dyck painted “A Genoese Lady with Her Child” during his time in Genoa, where he worked for the city’s powerful aristocratic families. This portrait invites us to consider the status and role of women in 17th century Genoese society. Note the opulence of the woman's dress, which signifies the family's wealth. Yet, her gaze, though direct, conveys a sense of formality and constraint. The child’s upward glance introduces a narrative of inheritance, of lineage, and of the expectations placed upon future generations. Van Dyck's time in Genoa coincided with a period of economic prosperity and social stratification. His portraits often reflect this duality, capturing both the grandeur and the underlying tensions of Genoese life. As you contemplate this painting, consider how the artist uses visual cues to communicate messages about identity, power, and social status.