Portrait of Susanna Lunden
Peter Paul Rubens·1622
Historical Context
Rubens painted the Portrait of Susanna Lunden around 1622-25, commonly known as Le Chapeau de Paille (The Straw Hat), though the hat is actually felt. The portrait depicts the sister of Rubens's second wife Hélène Fourment, capturing her vivacious personality and physical beauty with exceptional warmth. The painting's luminous treatment of light on skin and the informal, engaging composition made it one of the most admired portraits in European art. Now in the National Gallery, it inspired Renoir and other Impressionists who admired its fresh, luminous technique.
Technical Analysis
The portrait captures the sitter in a moment of animated engagement, with Rubens' virtuosic handling of light on her face and the shimmering fabrics of her costume. The dramatic sky backdrop and the handling of reflected light on flesh demonstrate his supreme painterly skill.
Look Closer
- ◆Susanna Lunden looks out from beneath a broad-brimmed hat with a direct, almost flirtatious gaze that creates an immediate connection with the viewer
- ◆Her fair complexion is rendered with the luminous, pearlescent technique Rubens reserved for his most admired subjects
- ◆The hat and décolletage suggest informal, almost private circumstances — this portrait feels stolen from a moment of intimate conversation
- ◆The quick, confident brushwork in the hat and background contrasts with the more careful modeling of the face
Condition & Conservation
This portrait, sometimes identified as the famous "Chapeau de Paille" (Straw Hat), has been well-maintained. The luminous flesh painting and lively brushwork in the hat are in excellent condition. The painting has been carefully cleaned to preserve the subtle tonal transitions. The panel support is stable.
