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Portrait of a Girl in Pale Blue with an Ostrich Feather Fan

Photo credit: The National Gallery, London

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Notes

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The young girl in this portrait seems a little shy and tentative. Her eyes are wide and enquiring, her eyebrows slightly raised. She holds out the fan a little awkwardly as if uncertain what to do with it. Her hand placed on her stomach almost appears to steady her.

The girl’s identity is unknown, as is her age. To judge by her dress and jewels she comes from a wealthy, probably noble, family. At one time it was thought she was from the Braganza family, who were related to Portuguese royalty, but no confirmation has been found.

Whoever she is, Bartholomeus van der Helst has certainly done justice to her elaborate costume, from the silk damask of her gown and the translucent organza over the tiers of her expensive lace collar to the softly glowing pearls at neck and wrists.

The National Gallery, London

London

Title

Portrait of a Girl in Pale Blue with an Ostrich Feather Fan

Date

1645

Medium

Oil on canvas

Measurements

H 75.4 x W 65.3 cm

Accession number

NG1248

Acquisition method

Bought, 1888

Work type

Painting

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Normally on display at

The National Gallery, London

Trafalgar Square, London, Greater London WC2N 5DN England

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