Portrait of Feyntje van Steenkiste, Frans Hals, 1635
oil on canvas, h 121.9cm × w 91.5cm Catalogue entry
Feyntje van Steenkiste hailed from a prosperous family active in the Haarlem textile industry, a connection shared by her husband Lucas de Clercq and his family. Their union strengthened the business ties between their respective families. Van Steenkiste’s wealth and Mennonite faith are evident in her clothing choices: elegant, yet sober. For example, in contrast to many of her more lavishly attired contemporaries, her wrists are adorned with just a hint of delicate white lace.
