#05921 Willem Adriaensz Key

The composition presents a female figure in a state of apparent distress or contemplation. She is depicted reclining against what appears to be a bed, partially draped in a reddish-orange fabric that covers her lower body and arm. Her upper torso is bare, revealing the presence of an arrow protruding from her side.
The woman’s face dominates the foreground; her gaze is directed towards the viewer with an expression that blends melancholy and perhaps resignation. The artist has rendered her features with a meticulous attention to detail, emphasizing the subtle nuances of light and shadow on her skin, particularly around her eyes and lips. Her hair, a vibrant shade of auburn, is elaborately styled and adorned with what seems to be a jeweled headband.
The color palette is rich and warm, dominated by earthy tones – the reds and oranges of the fabric contrast with the pale complexion of the woman’s skin. The background is dark and indistinct, which serves to isolate the figure and intensify her emotional impact.
Subtly, the arrow introduces a narrative element suggesting vulnerability and suffering. It implies an external force acting upon the subject, disrupting her tranquility. The placement of the arrow, centrally located on her body, draws immediate attention to this intrusion. The woman’s posture – leaning back against the bed – suggests a passive acceptance of her fate rather than active resistance.
Beyond the literal depiction of physical pain, the painting evokes themes of loss, betrayal, and perhaps divine intervention or punishment. The elaborate hairstyle and jewelry suggest a person of status, which further amplifies the tragedy implied by her current situation. The overall effect is one of poignant beauty tinged with sorrow and an underlying sense of mystery regarding the circumstances that led to this moment.