Marchesa Elena Grimaldi Cattaneo 1623

Anthony van Dyck painted this portrait of Marchesa Elena Grimaldi Cattaneo in the early 17th century. During this time, portraiture served as a powerful tool for the aristocracy to assert their status and power. In the painting, Elena is presented with markers of nobility; an elaborate dark gown, a ruffled collar, and she is holding a small branch. An enslaved person is holding a parasol over her head. It’s difficult to overlook the way the figure in the background underscores the Marchesa's status. I can't help but think about what it meant to be a woman during this time, especially a woman of color. This portrait makes me think about the performance of identity through clothing and social structures. What does it mean to see yourself represented in art, or to be absent from it? The painting leaves me with a feeling of both admiration for Elena's poise, and a deep unease about the social structures that uphold her position.