Portrait of Countess Caroline Schimmelmann(?) 1766 - 1770

Jens Juel painted this portrait of Countess Caroline Schimmelmann, or perhaps someone closely resembling her, during the late 18th century. Juel was a leading portraitist in Denmark, capturing the likenesses of the wealthy and powerful. Portraits like this offer a glimpse into the rigid social hierarchies of the time. Caroline’s elaborate dress and composed demeanor speak volumes about her status. Yet, there’s also a certain vulnerability in her gaze. Consider how gender norms shaped Caroline’s life. As a woman of nobility, her identity was closely tied to her role in society, her marriage, and her family's reputation. The fan she holds becomes more than an accessory; it’s a symbol of the limited agency afforded to women. Does this portrait celebrate the Countess's position, or does it hint at the constraints that came with it?