Margaret Leijonhead (1513-1541), Queen of Sweden * Johan Baptista van Uther

The portrait presents a woman in formal attire against a stark, dark background. She stands in three-quarter view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a solemn and somewhat distant expression. The composition is rigidly symmetrical, emphasizing formality and control.
Here we see an elaborate gown of deep red and brown hues, layered to create texture and visual interest. The fabric appears heavy, suggesting wealth and status. A jeweled collar adorns her neck, and a crown sits atop her head, signifying royal authority. In her right hand, she holds a scepter, another symbol of power and dominion.
The artist has rendered the woman’s features with a degree of realism, though softened by an idealized quality common in portraiture of this period. Her skin is pale, and her hair is neatly styled beneath the crown. The lighting focuses on her face and upper body, leaving the lower portion of the gown in shadow.
Above her head, a heraldic crest is displayed, further reinforcing her noble lineage. A Latin inscription runs along the top edge of the canvas, providing identifying information and likely serving as a formal declaration of her status. The script itself contributes to the overall sense of gravity and importance.
The dark background serves to isolate the figure, drawing attention solely to her person and regalia. This creates an atmosphere of austerity and emphasizes her position within a hierarchical social structure. The limited color palette – dominated by reds, browns, and blacks – contributes to this somber mood.
Subtly, there is a sense of restraint in the portrait. While displaying symbols of power, the woman’s expression lacks overt joy or exuberance. This could be interpreted as an indication of the burdens associated with her position, or perhaps simply a reflection of the conventions of courtly portraiture during this era. The overall effect is one of dignified authority and controlled presentation, designed to convey respect and underscore the subjects elevated status.