Portrait of a Lady with an Ostrich-Feather Fan

The Portrait of a Lady with an Ostrich-Feather Fan is a key example of the late portraiture style employed by Rembrandt van Rijn, dating from 1656 to 1658. This substantial work was executed in oil on canvas, though the paint layers were subsequently transferred to a new canvas support, a common conservation measure utilized historically to preserve fragile Old Master paintings. Executed during the later phase of the Dutch Golden Age, this piece falls squarely within the critical period designated as 1651 to 1700, showcasing the maturity of Rijn’s technique and vision.

The subject, an unidentified wealthy Amsterdam woman, is depicted in three-quarter length against a shadowy, undefined background. This compositional choice allows Rijn to focus dramatic light, utilizing chiaroscuro, on the sitter’s face and hands, drawing attention to her quiet psychological depth. Her rich, dark attire contrasts sharply with the intricate white ruff and cuffs, symbols of propriety and affluence in 17th-century Dutch society. Her pose is formal yet relaxed, with the titular ostrich-feather fan held delicately in her hand, an object indicating her high social and economic status.

Rijn’s application of paint here is both precise and expressive. He utilizes heavy impasto in the highlighted areas, lending texture and palpable dimension to the textiles and skin tones, while handling the elaborate jewelry and the delicate structure of the fan with remarkable control. This piece moves beyond a simple documentation of appearance, imbuing the sitter with introspection, a characteristic feature of Rijn’s later artistic output. As a testament to 17th-century Dutch portraiture, the painting’s historical importance is underscored by its residence in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. While the original painting remains protected, high-quality images and prints of this major work by Rijn are frequently made available through institutional programs and enter the public domain, allowing global access to its enduring artistry.