Baroness Wilhelmine Von Mylius 

This portrait of Baroness Wilhelmine Von Mylius, by Friedrich von Amerling, involves a complex relationship between the artist’s labor and the sitter’s status. Oil paint, of course, is the primary material. But consider how the painting presents other materials—the sheen of her satin dress, the delicate lace trim. These are not simply surface effects rendered by the artist. They reflect the actual labor involved in creating these luxurious textiles. Notice the exacting detail that Amerling uses to depict the Baroness's garments. The ruffles around the collar were a considerable demonstration of the dressmaker's skills. These goods were the product of factories and skilled artisans. The Baroness wears a sign of her family’s wealth, and the portrait itself functions similarly. It signals the family's social position, made possible by the many people who worked to supply their lifestyle. Considering these aspects of production helps us to see the painting not just as a portrait, but as a document of social relations.