Portrait of a Lady with lace collar 1928

Franz von Stuck painted this portrait of a lady with a lace collar, though the exact date remains unknown. Stuck was creating art during a time of immense social change, particularly for women. This portrait invites us to consider the changing roles and representations of women at the turn of the century. While the lace collar and dark dress speak to tradition, there’s a certain directness in her gaze that hints at a quiet strength. Stuck, known for his symbolist works, often explored themes of sensuality and power. Here, there's a tension between societal expectations and individual presence. Is she a symbol of feminine virtue, or is there something more complex at play? This portrait prompts us to question the stories we tell about women, both then and now, and to reflect on the multifaceted nature of identity.