Portret van Maria de Barbançon, prinses van Arenberg 1645

This 1645 engraving by Paulus Pontius portrays Maria de Barbançon, Princess of Arenberg, in a refined and elegant manner. The detailed depiction of her elaborate lace collar, pearl necklace, and finely-wrought cufflinks is a testament to Pontius's skill in capturing the rich textures and subtle details of his subjects. This work, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a fine example of the portraiture style prevalent in 17th century Flanders, combining realism with a sense of aristocratic refinement. The artist's skillful use of light and shadow creates depth and dimension, enhancing the sense of Maria's presence in the image.