Sustris, Lambert – Vrouw met schild, 1540-1570 Rijksmuseum: part 3

The painting presents a female figure engaged in the act of painting, set within a naturalistic landscape. The woman stands in profile, her body angled slightly towards the viewer, while her gaze is directed downwards at the panel she holds. Her hair, a pale blonde, falls loosely around her shoulders and down her back, braided with what appears to be a cord or ribbon. She wears a simple, dark green dress with straps that expose her upper arms and shoulders. The artist has rendered her skin tone in warm, earthy hues, suggesting exposure to the elements.
The background is composed of a blurred landscape featuring a tall tree trunk on the left side and indistinct foliage behind the figure. A low-lying area covered in vegetation extends towards the foreground, grounding the composition. The palette is muted, dominated by greens, browns, and ochres, contributing to an overall sense of tranquility and introspection.
The panel she holds is rectangular and appears to be another painting surface, though its content remains obscured. This detail introduces a layer of self-referentiality; the woman is depicted as both subject and creator, blurring the lines between observation and representation. The act of painting itself becomes a central theme, suggesting an exploration of artistic practice and the role of the artist.
The figure’s posture conveys a sense of concentration and dedication to her craft. Her bare feet suggest informality or perhaps a connection with nature. The subdued lighting and limited color range contribute to a contemplative atmosphere, inviting viewers to consider the process of creation and the relationship between the artist, the subject, and the artwork itself. There is an understated elegance in the simplicity of the scene, hinting at a quiet dignity associated with artistic endeavor.