Pieter Dubordieu, Dutch (active Leiden and Amsterdam), born 1609/10, still active 1678 – Portrait of Jeanne de Planque Philadelphia Museum of Art

The composition presents a woman in three-quarter pose against a dark, indistinct background. She is positioned centrally within the frame, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a connection. The lighting is carefully controlled; it illuminates her face and upper torso while leaving the lower portion of her dress in shadow, creating depth and emphasizing her presence.
The woman’s attire immediately conveys status and wealth. A large, starched linen ruff encircles her neck, its crisp folds meticulously rendered to showcase the skill of the artist. The dark fabric of her gown is richly embroidered with intricate floral patterns, a detail that speaks to considerable expense and craftsmanship. Her sleeves are lined with white lace cuffs, further accentuating the luxurious nature of her clothing.
In her left hand, she holds a closed book, its spine visible but unreadable. This object carries symbolic weight; it suggests learning, piety, or perhaps a connection to intellectual pursuits. The book’s placement is deliberate – not open for display, but held as an attribute rather than a narrative element. In her right hand, she clutches a small, folded handkerchief, which adds a touch of modesty and restraint to the overall presentation.
The artist has paid close attention to rendering textures: the smoothness of her skin, the crispness of the linen, the sheen of the fabric. The subtle modeling of her face reveals an expression that is difficult to decipher – it might be interpreted as seriousness, composure, or perhaps a hint of melancholy.
The dark background serves to isolate the figure and draw attention to her features and clothing. It also contributes to a sense of formality and solemnity characteristic of portraiture from this period. The overall effect is one of dignified restraint and quiet authority, suggesting a woman of considerable social standing and inner strength.