Abraham del Court and His Wife Maria de Kaersgieter

Welcome, everyone! Before you stands Abraham del Court and His Wife Maria de Kaersgieter, a captivating portrait painted in 1654 by the masterful Bartholomeus van der Helst. This magnificent piece, measuring 1.465 meters wide and 1.72 meters high, is part of the esteemed collection of the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. nn The painting presents a seated portrait of Abraham del Court and his wife, Maria de Kaersgieter, set within a lush, shadowy garden. Mr. del Court, attired in a dark, almost black, satin suit with striking white cuffs, exudes a serious demeanor. His dark coat, black cravat with tassels, and dark breeches and boots complete his elegant ensemble. He holds his wide-brimmed hat gently in his lap. nn Beside him, his wife Maria is a vision in a flowing, light grey or silvery-white satin gown, exquisitely adorned with delicate embroidery or beading. The contrast of her white lace collar and cuffs against the satin is simply stunning. She wears a pearl necklace and a dark, possibly jeweled, pendant, adding to her refined appearance. Her hair is elegantly styled, and her expression is softer and more relaxed than her husband's, her hand gently resting on his. She interacts with a flowering rose bush, adding a touch of vibrant color to the scene. nn The background, a dark and mysterious garden, hints at a sense of privacy and prosperity. Lush greenery and a partially visible fountain add depth to the composition. The light focuses beautifully on the couple, highlighting the textures of their clothing and their individual expressions, while the darker background draws the viewer's eye directly to them. The roses, symbolic of love and beauty, add a final touch of elegance. nn The overall palette is muted, with the dark tones of the men's clothing and the background contrasting beautifully with the lighter tones of Maria's dress. The intimate positioning of the couple speaks volumes about their marital unity and shared life. The garden setting further suggests a life of peace and prosperity. This is truly a remarkable example of 17th-century portraiture, showcasing both the artist's skill and the couple's social standing. Enjoy its beauty and the story it tells.