Portret van een vrouw, mogelijk Catherine Moore c. 1770

This is an undated portrait of a woman, possibly Catherine Moore, by an anonymous artist, held at the Rijksmuseum. Portraits have historically been the domain of the wealthy, used to solidify social standing or family legacy. Here, the sitter's fashionable attire, including a large, floral-adorned hat, signals a certain level of affluence and status. But what does it mean when the artist remains unknown? How does the absence of the artist's identity impact our understanding of the sitter's portrayal? In many ways this work departs from traditional representation, focusing on a more intimate and understated depiction. There is a striking ambivalence captured in the woman's expression. Her gaze, directed slightly off-center, and the gentle slope of her shoulders suggest a quiet introspection. Ultimately, this portrait invites us to consider the complexities of identity, representation, and authorship. It suggests that the story of a portrait is not just about the person depicted, but also about the artist, the social context, and the many unseen hands that contribute to its creation and reception.