Portretten van twee courtisanes 1635

"Portretten van twee courtisanes" (1635) by Crispijn van de Passe (II) features two women, each in an oval frame, and identified with text. The women are likely courtesans as indicated by their names. The work is a fine example of 17th century Dutch printmaking. This small-scale print, approximately 111 mm x 157 mm, is part of a series of prints featuring famous women, known as "Portretten van vermaerde vrouwen" (Portraits of Famous Women). These portraits were likely intended as private works for a small audience. The delicate detail and the use of line and shadow are hallmarks of Crispijn van de Passe (II)'s style.