Woman at a Mirror

Gerard ter Borch (II), c. 1652

A young boy holds up a mirror for the woman in the satin gown, who gazes upward at a far more plainly dressed woman. In the 17th century, mirrors symbolized vanity and the transience of life. This painting serves as a cautionary reminder: youth and beauty are fleeting. Ter Borch’s sister, Gesina, also an artist, probably modelled for both women, and his brother Moses for the boy.

  • Artwork typepainting
  • Object numberSK-A-4039
  • Dimensionsheight 34.5 cm x width 26 cm
  • Physical characteristicsolieverf op paneel