Isabella, the Artist's Wife

In his self-portrait (#78.20.21A), Gabriel Metsu's stance—one arm leaning casually over the back of his chair and his gaze directed out toward the viewer—displays overt self-confidence. His wife, on the other hand, appears serene and self-contained. Dutch portrait artists were praised for their ability to communicate a sense of their sitters' personalities. While Metsu's portrait conveys the swagger of the successful artist, that of his wife emphasizes the ideal of feminine reserve.