Portrait of a lady (Margravine Elisabeth von Ansbach-Bayreuth?)

Portrait of a lady (Margravine Elisabeth von Ansbach-Bayreuth?)

Artwork Type: Painting

Artwork Description: The artwork is a painting titled "Portrait of a Lady (Margravine Elisabeth von Ansbach-Bayreuth?)" created by Lucas Cranach the Younger in 1579. It is part of the collection of the Bavarian State Painting Collections and measures 0.875 x 0.693 meters. The painting depicts a young woman, possibly Margravine Elisabeth von Ansbach-Bayreuth, wearing a black and red dress with elaborate jewelry.

Artwork Date: 1579

Institution Name: Alte Pinakothek

Artwork Size: 0.875 x 0.693 meters

Author Name: Lucas Cranach the Younger

Description:

The painting depicts a woman, potentially Margravine Elisabeth von Ansbach-Bayreuth, from the chest up against a muted blue background. She is adorned in a luxurious ensemble typical of the sixteenth century. Her attire consists of a vibrant red dress with a tightly corseted bodice, accentuated by delicate white ruffles at the wrists. Atop her dress, she wears a striking black over-garment embellished with intricate gold embroidery and pearl accents.

Her jewelry is equally opulent, featuring a large, ornate jeweled pendant hanging from a thick gold chain, along with additional necklaces and rings. Her blonde hair is neatly pulled back under a small, black hat adorned with pearls and gold detailing. Her fair complexion and delicate features are accentuated by the artist's meticulous attention to detail.

The woman's expression is serene and composed, her hands gently clasped in front of her. Her direct gaze towards the viewer suggests a sense of confidence and poise. The overall impression is one of wealth, status, and refined elegance, characteristic of portraiture during this period.