Psyche Lambert van Noort (c.1520-1571)

The composition presents a figure suspended in mid-air, seemingly ascending through a turbulent sky. The central subject is a woman with classical features and flowing hair, draped in a crimson garment that billows dramatically around her. She holds aloft a golden urn or vessel, its contents obscured from view. Flanking her are two winged figures, presumably cherubic in nature, who appear to assist or accompany her ascent.
The background establishes a landscape receding into the distance. A city, rendered with architectural detail, sits nestled amongst rolling hills and dense vegetation. The horizon line is punctuated by distant mountains, suggesting vastness and an otherworldly realm. The sky itself is painted with swirling clouds, creating a sense of movement and dynamism that contrasts with the relative stillness of the figures.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – reds, golds, and browns – which contribute to a feeling of warmth and perhaps even divine radiance. The flesh tones are rendered with considerable attention to detail, emphasizing the idealized beauty of the central figure. Light plays an important role in shaping the forms; it illuminates her face and upper body while casting shadows that define the folds of her drapery.
Subtleties within the work suggest a narrative beyond mere depiction. The urn held aloft could symbolize reward, enlightenment, or perhaps even a burden – its contents remain ambiguous, inviting speculation about its significance. The presence of the winged figures hints at divine intervention or assistance in this ascent. Their expressions are gentle and encouraging, suggesting they guide the woman towards an unknown destination.
The landscape below, with its city and natural elements, may represent the earthly realm from which she is departing. It could be interpreted as a symbol of mortality or worldly concerns left behind in pursuit of something higher. The overall impression conveyed is one of spiritual elevation, transformation, and the potential for transcendence – a journey away from the tangible world towards an idealized state.