Susanna Fourment and Her Daughter 1621

Anthony van Dyck painted this portrait of Susanna Fourment and her daughter using oil on canvas. The work’s material – oil paint – allows for the depiction of luxury fabrics in great detail. Notice the shimmering gold brocade, the crisp linen ruff, and the deep, rich velvet. Van Dyck masterfully uses light and shadow to convey the texture and weight of these materials. These fabrics weren’t just visually appealing; they were potent symbols of wealth and status. The elaborate textiles would have been incredibly expensive to produce, requiring skilled labor and access to global trade routes. The clothing speaks to the social context of the 17th century, a time of growing merchant power and conspicuous consumption. By focusing on the materiality of dress, Van Dyck's portrait offers a glimpse into the economic and social fabric of his time. The painting blurs the lines between fine art and craft, elevating the skills of textile artisans and the significance of everyday materials.