Portrait of Hermana von der Cruysse (1615-1705)

Hermana von der Cruysse (the Germanised spelling of van der Cruis) was painted by ter Borch again in 1667, two years after an earlier portrait of the same sitter (Q26692215), suggesting an ongoing relationship between painter and patron. Such repeated commissions were common with Deventer families, who might commission a portrait at marriage, at middle age, or to mark a significant event. The 1667 portrait may show the sitter a few years older, or may present her on a different occasion. The pair of portraits documents ter Borch's sustained engagement with a specific social circle.

The 1667 version is likely slightly larger or differently posed than the 1665 pendant. Ter Borch's handling of the costume fabrics is characteristically refined, with layered glazes building the appearance of satin or silk. The face is treated with the quiet restraint typical of his female portraiture.