The magnificent feminine counterpart to the portrait of Marten Soolmans, this masterpiece reveals Oopjen Coppit in all the splendor of her youth. The young woman stands with sovereign elegance, her silhouette magnified by a formal black dress whose deep velvet absorbs light while revealing its rich textures.
In this work, Rembrandt achieves technical virtuosity in his treatment of the diaphanous lace collar and cuffs that emerge with brilliant whiteness against the intense black. The subtle interplay between shadow and light sculpts Oopjen’s serene face, whose direct yet benevolent gaze conveys quiet confidence. Her jewelry—pearl necklace, brooch, and rings—signals her considerable fortune, while the black ostrich feather fan she delicately holds underscores her refinement. In this undefined space where only the tiled floor anchors the composition, the young bride exudes an almost palpable presence.
Further Information
- Portrait of Oopjen Coppit, by Rembrandt van Rijn, 1634
- 207.5 x 132 cm
- The Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam and Musée du Louvre, Paris (currently exhibited in Paris until 2029 before alternating back to Amsterdam for 5 years)
- https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/collection/object/Portrait-of-Oopjen-Coppit–6b7d967cdf05b81c2416359e06adaf52
- https://collections.louvre.fr/ark:/53355/cl010249522
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669) was at the height of his fame when he painted this nuptial double portrait in 1634. At only 28 years old, the painter had already established himself as Amsterdam’s most sought-after portraitist. This prosperous period of his career preceded the personal tragedies and financial setbacks that would lead him toward more introspective and experimental painting. This portrait of Oopjen, created as a pendant to that of her husband Marten Soolmans, constitutes an exceptional testimony to the Dutch Golden Age. Long preserved in private collections, this diptych was the subject of a historic joint acquisition by the Louvre and the Rijksmuseum in 2016 for 160 million euros.
