Portrait of Margaretha de Geer, Wife of Jacob Trip
- Artist: Rembrandt
- Date: 1661
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is the "Portrait of Margaretha de Geer, Wife of Jacob Trip" painted in 1661. It's a smaller version of a larger portrait of Margaretha, which was also painted by Rembrandt around the same time and hangs alongside it at the National Gallery.
Rembrandt's portraits of Margaretha and her husband are extremely detailed and realistic, showcasing his skill as an artist. However, some technical analysis has raised questions about whether this particular painting is actually a genuine work by Rembrandt or a later copy. The signature on the left side of the canvas appears to be in Rembrandt's style, but some experts have suggested that it might not be authentic.
One reason for this uncertainty is the use of unusual materials and techniques in this painting, which differ from those typically used by Rembrandt. For example, the ground of the canvas has been prepared differently than usual. While these inconsistencies don't necessarily prove that Rembrandt wasn't involved, they do suggest that something unusual may have occurred.
Interestingly, the two portraits of Margaretha show some subtle differences in technique and style. The paint application is more fluid and expressive here than in the larger portrait, with softer brushstrokes around her mouth and nose. The folds of her ruff are also rendered slightly differently.
While we may never know for certain whether this painting was created by Rembrandt or his workshop, it remains a beautiful and intriguing work that offers insights into the artist's style and technique during this period.
See it in person
Portrait of Margaretha de Geer, Wife of Jacob Trip hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
