Eine ältliche Dame nach links gewandt mit Häubchen und Spitzenhalstuch 

Hendrik Pothoven created this portrait of an elderly lady with a bonnet and lace scarf, sometime in the 18th century. During this time, the representation of women in art was deeply entrenched in societal expectations. The woman's attire speaks volumes about her social standing and the cultural norms of the era. The bonnet and lace scarf, while elegant, also symbolize modesty and domesticity, virtues highly valued in women. The intricate details of her clothing reflect the emphasis on refinement and status. While the woman may not be a member of the aristocracy, she is certainly wealthy enough to signify status through fashion. However, I wonder about the untold stories behind the portrait. What were her experiences? How did she navigate the expectations placed upon her gender and class? This portrait provides a glimpse into the life of a woman in a bygone era, inviting us to contemplate her humanity and the complexities of her existence.