ORLEY, Bernaert van
(b. 1491/92, Bruxelles, d. 1542, Bruxelles)

Portrait of Margaret of Austria

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Wood
Private collection

Margaret of Austria was the Governess of the Netherlands. The painter was probably asked to tone down all her personal features. Her left hand is raised in a gesture of speaking. The strict half-profile facing left is the predominant element of the portrait.