#23267 Jusepe de Ribera (1591-1652)

The composition presents a half-length portrait of a woman holding a tambourine. The subject is positioned centrally against a dark, indistinct background that contributes to a dramatic chiaroscuro effect. Light falls intensely on her face and upper body, highlighting the texture of her skin and the details of her attire.
Here we see a direct gaze from the woman towards the viewer, accompanied by an open-mouthed smile that conveys a sense of amusement or perhaps even playful mockery. Her expression is complex; it’s not merely joyful but carries a hint of knowingness, bordering on impudence. The dark hair, adorned with a feather, frames her face and adds to the overall impression of vitality.
The tambourine dominates the foreground, its circular form partially obscuring the womans body. Her hands are positioned in a way that suggests she is about to strike the instrument, implying an imminent burst of sound or movement. The white collar contrasts sharply with the darker tones of her dress and hair, drawing attention to her neck and face.
The artist’s use of light and shadow creates a theatrical atmosphere, reminiscent of stage lighting. This enhances the sense that we are observing a performance or a moment captured outside of everyday life. The dark background serves not only to isolate the figure but also to intensify the emotional impact of her expression.
Subtly, the painting seems to challenge conventional notions of portraiture. Rather than presenting an idealized image of beauty and virtue, it offers a glimpse into the personality of a woman who is both engaging and slightly unsettling. The tambourine itself can be interpreted as a symbol of festivity, but also potentially of frivolity or even rebellion against societal norms. It’s possible to read this work as a commentary on social class, portraying a figure from a lower stratum with an unexpected degree of confidence and self-possession.