Portrait of Maria Luisa de Tassis by Anthony Van Dyck

Portrait of Maria Luisa de Tassis by Anthony Van Dyck

The family de Tassis originated from Bergamo and became famous for inventing the first postal system in Europe at the end of the XV century.. Maria originated from the Antwerp branch of the family. The artist painted a nineteen-year-old girl looking directly at the viewer. The dark background allows you to focus on the beautiful model.

She has an exquisite black and white dress with big puffs according to the French fashion of that time. Surprisingly the airy white silk is artfully embroidered with a thin golden braid. Numerous, finely drawn folds of the dress create a wonderful game of light and shadow, emphasizing the brilliance of exquisite fabric. On the chest of Mary is an ornament in the form of a gold cross with diamonds, on the neck is a string of large pearls. In her right hand she holds a fan of ostrich feathers, which seems to sway in the air, filling the space of the picture. A snow-white high collar made of delicate lace is decorated with sharp patterned edges.

In a slightly embarrassed half-smile, illuminating Maria’s face with a light blush, touched her cheeks, tenderness of white skin, the artist with virtuosic skill conveys the unique charm of youth. The look of the big dark eyes of the girl, looking openly and at the same time thoughtfully, gives the image a special charm.

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