Baen, Jan de – Johanna le Gillon (1635-1706). Echtgenote van Hieronymus van Beverningk, 1670 Rijksmuseum: part 2

The portrait presents a woman in three-quarter view, positioned slightly left of center. She is depicted with a formal and dignified bearing, her gaze directed towards the viewer. The composition adheres to conventions of 17th-century Dutch portraiture, emphasizing status and character through meticulous detail and restrained emotion.
Here we see a richly textured fabric dominating the visual field; it drapes across her shoulders and forms the bodice of her gown. The shimmering quality of the material suggests wealth and refinement. A pale blue scarf is casually arranged over one arm, providing a contrast to the metallic sheen of the dress and introducing an element of relaxed elegance. Her hair is styled in elaborate curls, adorned with jewels that catch the light. A pearl necklace further underscores her social standing.
The background is deliberately subdued, consisting of a dark curtain on the left and a hazy landscape visible through an opening on the right. The landscape appears to be a distant view of a town or city, rendered in muted tones, which serves to place the sitter within a broader context of civilization and prosperity.
In her hands, she holds a stringed instrument – likely a lute or similar early keyboard – and what seems to be a plectrum. This detail is significant; musical ability was often considered an essential virtue for women of high social standing during this period, signifying education, refinement, and leisure. The inclusion of the instrument suggests not only her personal talents but also reinforces the expectation that she would contribute to the cultural life of her household.
The lighting in the painting is carefully controlled; it illuminates her face and upper body while leaving the background in shadow. This technique draws attention to her features and emphasizes her presence within the composition. The subtle modeling of her face conveys a sense of intelligence and composure, avoiding any overt display of sentimentality.
Subtly, the portrait communicates an image of cultivated femininity – a woman who embodies both social grace and intellectual accomplishment. It is not merely a representation of physical appearance but also a statement about her position within society and her role as a cultured member of the elite.