Portrait of a Young Woman with a Fan

Portrait of a Young Woman with a Fan is a significant oil on canvas painting executed by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1633. This exquisite work, which measures 49 1/8 x 38 1/2 inches (124.8 x 97.8 cm), is a key highlight of the European Paintings collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

The subject, an unidentified young woman, is presented in elaborate, high-fashion attire characteristic of wealthy Amsterdam patrons during the Dutch Golden Age. She holds a closed fan, an accessory often utilized in formal portraits of women to denote status and social standing. Rembrandt employs his emerging masterful technique of chiaroscuro to dramatically illuminate the sitter’s face, emphasizing the texture of her elaborate lace collar, pearls, and jewelry. The intricate detail in these elements contrasts subtly with the broader, expressive handling of the surrounding shadows and background.

This piece exemplifies the sophisticated portrait style that established Rembrandt’s reputation upon his move from Leiden to Amsterdam. During this time, commissioned portraits were vital to his success, capturing the ambition and affluence of the city’s merchant class. The detailed handling of light and costume ensures this piece functions both as an intimate study and a valuable historical document of seventeenth-century Dutch society.

Today, this seminal work remains a globally recognized example of early Dutch painting. While the original canvas is carefully conserved within The Met's permanent collection, the high-resolution images are often available through public domain initiatives. Consequently, high-quality prints and reproductions derived from the artwork allow students and enthusiasts worldwide to study the mastery of Rembrandt’s technique.