Catharina Josephina den Tex-Biben 1882

Therese Schwartze painted this portrait of Catharina Josephina den Tex-Biben with oils on canvas. Note how the manipulation of the medium—the brushing of the paint—defines the whole composition. Schwartze's technique captures the textures of status and wealth, conjuring the soft nap of velvet in the sitter’s dress. The dress itself is a construction, relying on the textile industry and the skilled labor of dressmakers. Its color, achieved through complex dye recipes, speaks to the global trade networks of the time. The lace trim around the neck and wrists is also a testament to specialized craft, contrasting with the sombre, mass-produced felt of the broad-brimmed hat. Schwartze’s brushstrokes don’t just record appearances; they reveal the social and economic conditions of her time. Ultimately, this portrait isn't just about individual likeness; it's about the complex interplay of materials, making, and social context.