Sandrina van den Broeke, Wife of George Lodewijk Matthes 1764

Noël Challe painted “Sandrina van den Broeke, Wife of George Lodewijk Matthes” with oil on canvas. This portrait embodies the social conventions of 18th-century Dutch society. The lavish clothing, jewelry, and composed expression all signal the sitter's elevated social status. The dark background and soft lighting put the focus on Sandrina's face and attire, underscoring her identity as a woman of means and influence. The portrait was likely commissioned to commemorate her marriage or to reinforce the family’s social standing. As art historians, we look beyond the surface to unpack the social dynamics at play. Genealogical records, historical accounts, and studies of fashion and material culture provide valuable context. By exploring these resources, we can understand how art serves to reflect and, at times, reinforce existing social norms and power structures. Sandrina’s portrait, therefore, is a testament to her place within a specific time and society.