Petronella Elias (1648–1667) with a Basket of Fruit

Petronella Elias (1648–1667) with a Basket of Fruit

Artist: Ferdinand Bol

Medium: Oil on canvas

Date: 1657

Artistic and Historical Context

Ferdinand Bol, a prominent Dutch painter of the 17th century, was a pupil of Rembrandt, and his work often reflects the influence of his master. "Petronella Elias with a Basket of Fruit" exemplifies Bol's skill in portraiture, capturing the subject with a sense of realism and warmth characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age. The painting is notable for its detailed depiction of textures, such as the fabric of Petronella's clothing and the variety of fruits, which demonstrate Bol's technical proficiency. This work contributes to the understanding of portraiture in the period, highlighting the social status and wealth of the sitter through the inclusion of luxurious elements. Bol's portraits are significant for their ability to convey the personality and status of the subjects, making them valuable historical documents of the era. His career, marked by a successful transition from Rembrandt's studio to establishing his own, underscores his importance in the Dutch art scene of the 17th century.

Petronella Elias (1648–1667) with a Basket of Fruit

Painted by Ferdinand Bol in 1657, "Petronella Elias with a Basket of Fruit" is an oil on canvas that exemplifies the Dutch Baroque style with its rich detail and emphasis on texture. The portrait, which captures the young Petronella Elias holding a basket of fruit, is part of the collection at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.