Portrait of a Daughter of Dietrich Bromsen

About the Art

This painting from Germany demonstrates many similarities with art from Holland and other parts of northern Europe. Intended as a wedding portrait, this painting includes signs of the sitter’s status. The girl wears black-colored jewels around her neck and on her hands, made from flat cut diamonds backed with brass foil to enhance their luster. The ornate and expensive lace emphasizes her standing within a wealthy family. Her dress was fashioned after the style of a German military uniform of the period and the gold war medals were likely her father’s. At the time, it was also fashionable for women to shave their foreheads as a sign of intelligence.

FEATURED IMAGE
Michael Conrad Hirt (German, 1615–1694), Portrait of a Daughter of Dietrich Bromsen, about 1635, oil on canvas, 40 x 26 inches (101.6 x 66 cm). Gift of Mr. Robert Badenhop, 1955.71