Bust of a deformed woman with conical hat and two dangling plaits in profile to left 1665

Wenceslaus Hollar’s etching “Bust of a Deformed Woman with Conical Hat and Two Dangling Plaits in Profile to Left” is a fascinating example of 17th-century portraiture. Created in 1665, the piece depicts a woman with a striking, unique appearance. The woman’s head is turned in profile, revealing a deformed facial structure with a prominent nose and fleshy lips, while her head is crowned with a conical hat and two dangling braids. The etching’s delicate lines and detailed rendering, characteristic of Hollar’s style, convey a sense of realism and even compassion toward the subject. Hollar was a prolific artist known for his etchings, particularly portraits and scenes of everyday life, and this piece demonstrates his masterful ability to capture the nuances of human expression.