Attributed to Claude Deruet – Marie de Rohan-Montbazon, Duchess of Luynes, later of Chevreuse (1600-1679) Château de Versailles

Here we observe a portrait set within a landscape, presenting a woman in a theatrical and symbolic pose. The composition is dominated by the figure of a young woman, positioned centrally and slightly off-kilter, as if caught mid-movement. She wears an elaborate costume – a flowing pink robe trimmed with green fabric, suggesting both luxury and a connection to nature. Her hair is styled with dark ringlets, adorned with a crescent moon motif, which introduces a celestial element to her presentation.
The woman holds a horn aloft in one hand, while the other rests on a drawn bow, an arrow poised for release. A stag stands close by, its gaze directed towards the viewer, and a hunting dog is positioned at the lower right corner of the scene, further reinforcing the theme of the hunt. The background consists of a dense forest rendered with muted greens and browns, punctuated by glimpses of a distant sky.
The setting suggests an idealized pastoral environment, but the woman’s attire and posture introduce a layer of artifice. Her clothing is not practical for hunting; rather, it emphasizes her status and refinement. The stags proximity – it does not appear startled or threatened – implies a staged encounter, more symbolic than realistic.
The inclusion of the bow and arrow suggests themes of power, skill, and perhaps even aggression, traditionally associated with masculine domains. By presenting a woman wielding these tools, the artist may be exploring notions of female agency and challenging conventional gender roles. The horn could symbolize authority or heraldry, further emphasizing her elevated position.
The crescent moon in her hair might allude to Diana, the Roman goddess of the hunt, wilderness, wild animals, the Moon, and chastity. This association would elevate the woman’s image beyond a mere portrait, imbuing it with mythological significance. The inscription visible at the upper left corner adds another layer of complexity; its content is obscured but suggests an accompanying text or explanation that might further clarify the intended meaning of the work.
Overall, the painting presents a carefully constructed narrative – a blend of aristocratic display, symbolic representation, and subtle commentary on gender dynamics within a courtly context.