Neeltje van der Cruysse c. 1669 - 1670

Editor: This is Gerard Terborch's "Neeltje van der Cruysse," housed here at the Harvard Art Museums. The dark fabric of her dress seems to absorb all the light! What can you tell me about this piece? Curator: I see a portrait deeply invested in the material realities of its time. Consider the labor involved in producing that black fabric, and the social implications of who could afford such luxurious goods. How does the texture of the fabric communicate status? Editor: So, it's less about her as an individual and more about what her clothes represent in terms of wealth? Curator: Precisely! The artist meticulously rendered the textures and drapes, highlighting the consumption and display of wealth, rather than psychological depth. What does it tell us about class and gender in the 17th Century? Editor: That gives me a lot to consider about the labor involved in producing art and clothing. Thank you. Curator: Absolutely. Considering the social context of production changes the way we see everything!