Portrait of Dirckje Tymansdr Gael, called van der Graft, Wife of Mattheus Augustijnsz Steyn 1588

Painted by Pieter Pietersz, this portrait of Dirckje Tymansdr Gael, wife of Mattheus Augustijnsz Steyn, offers a fascinating view into 16th-century Dutch society through the lens of materiality and making. Pietersz employed oil on wood, a traditional medium that allowed for great detail and a smooth surface, essential for capturing the likeness and social standing of the sitter. The smooth finish and careful blending speak to the artist's skill, but also to the subject's wealth. The black fabric of Dirckje's dress, the fine linen of her cap and ruff, and the book she holds, all indicate a life of comfort enabled by trade. Consider the labor involved – from the cultivation of flax for the linen to the production of pigments for the paint. Pietersz's meticulous technique and rendering of textures highlight not just the artistry, but also the economic realities of the time. Ultimately, the portrait invites us to consider the world of labor, materials, and social status embedded within the artwork. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and recognize the complex interplay between fine art and the broader world.