89. Rembrandt van Rijn, Portrait of a Young Woman
Would she have guessed that we would study her inscrutable expression still, centuries later, when her name was lost to history? One side of her face speaks softly of the sad weight of existence, the other side radiates beautiful, otherworldly calm. Yes, the ribbon, lace, and pearls are stunning. But it is the extraordinary depth of her expression, so sensitively rendered, that elevates this portrait, arguably the finest painting in the museum. Oh dear girl—and oh dear Rembrandt—thank you for reminding us that people, that life itself, is the same as it ever was, and ever shall be.
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This post is part of MFAH 100, a series featuring works from the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, in honor of its 100th birthday. 100 words on 100 works in 100 days.
Have a piece you’d like me to consider? Send a message or leave a comment—I can’t promise I’ll include it but I will give it a serious look.
...wearing life well....a stunning work...thank you, eys. P.S. I have loved your project....
I think I had that collar back in the day! : )