Margareta Zaebråzyntia Bureus (1594-1657) Unknown painters

The portrait presents a woman depicted against a dark, circular backdrop that emphasizes her form and draws attention to the details of her attire and expression. She is positioned centrally within the frame, facing directly towards the viewer with a composed gaze. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating her face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow.
The subject’s clothing reflects the fashion of the period. A dark, high-necked garment, likely velvet or a similar heavy fabric, dominates the composition. A crisp white linen ruff encircles her neck, its starched edges meticulously rendered. A simple white cap covers her hair, framing her face and accentuating her pale complexion. The contrast between the dark clothing and the light fabrics creates visual interest and highlights the textures of the materials.
In her left hand, she holds a small sprig bearing leaves, possibly olive branches. This detail introduces an element of symbolism; olive branches are traditionally associated with peace, victory, or prosperity. In her right hand, she delicately holds what appears to be a citrus fruit – perhaps an orange or lemon. The inclusion of this fruit could signify wealth and access to luxury goods, as such items were not readily available in all regions during the period.
The inscription Anno A.T.L. M.DCXLII is visible in the upper right corner, indicating the year of creation: 1642. This provides a temporal anchor for understanding the portrait’s context and stylistic conventions.
The overall impression conveyed by this painting is one of dignity and quiet strength. The womans direct gaze suggests confidence and intelligence. The carefully chosen objects she holds contribute to an aura of status and refinement, while the dark background lends a sense of solemnity and gravitas to her presence. The artist’s focus on detail – the texture of the fabrics, the precise rendering of facial features – indicates a desire for realism and a meticulous approach to portraiture.