The Camp Follower by Jan van Bijlert. A half-length portrait of a smiling woman in a large feathered hat and low-cut chemise, carrying game birds over her shoulder and holding a large wooden tankard.

The Camp Follower

Jan van Bijlert

1630 · Oil Paint, Canvas

A spirited 17th-century Dutch portrait featuring warm light, rustic charm, and masterful brushwork.

$169

For the selected configuration

From $129

1 frame size

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Where it works

A weightier piece with steady character with softened warm notes — holds its place without needing much around it.

Often works in
Dining Room · Living Room · Study
Placement
Strongest where a vertical wall can take more presence
Walls
Best where a lighter wall gives it room to show
Color notes
Charcoal black, Deep burgundy, Rich brown

About the piece

Painted around 1630 by Jan van Bijlert, this work is a superb example of the Utrecht Caravaggisti style. It depicts a 'marketentster' or camp follower with a lively, engaging expression, rendered with the dramatic chiaroscuro typical of the period. The rich textures of the feathers, wood, and fabric are captured with luminous detail, reflecting the artist's refined technique.

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