England, 17th century / 1619
Portrait of a Woman, possibly Elizabeth Boothby
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Portrait of a Woman, possibly Elizabeth Boothby as painting (England, 17th century · 1619).
For this prominent merchant's daughter, sparkling jewels and expensive lace were proud evidence of wealth.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this painting as oil on wood and credits Cornelis Jonson (called Jonson van Ceulen) (British, 1593–1661).
The museum's collection notes: Research suggests that this portrait may depict Elizabeth Boothby (1590–1658), daughter of a prominent London merchant. The jewels in her hair, the silver thread and expensive lace adorning her silk gown, and even the faux marble oval surrounding her image are all signs of wealth and status. Although painted in England, this portrait reflects the traditions of Dutch portraiture, evidence of the fluid artistic exchange that existed between the two countries. Jonson was born in London, received his artistic training in Amsterdam, and spent the last 20 years of his career in the Dutch Republic.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtPortrait of a Woman, possibly Elizabeth BoothbyOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.