Venetiaanse adellijke dame in kostuum voor de winter 1598

This is a woodcut print by Christoph Krieger depicting a Venetian noblewoman in winter attire. The elaborate patterns on the woman's dress and the heavy fabric are visual signifiers of wealth. The image creates meaning through cultural references such as the ornate frame, a common feature of portraiture at the time, reflecting the sitter’s high status. The artwork likely dates from the 17th century, a period when Venice was an important center for trade and culture, but also a society marked by strict class divisions. The noble class enjoyed privileges and power that were denied to the rest of the population. These portraits could be interpreted as commentaries on social hierarchy. They are self-consciously conservative, affirming traditional social roles and norms. To better understand the social context of this image, we might research the history of costume in Venice, the economy and trade, and the structure of Venetian society. Only with this historical context can the meaning of the image be revealed.