A refined nineteenth-century etching by Dutch artist Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar, depicting a portrait of Anna Susanna van der Chijs-Bagelaar.

This portrait by the Dutch artist Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar depicts Anna Susanna van der Chijs-Bagelaar. Executed as an etching, the work demonstrates the technical precision characteristic of early nineteenth-century printmaking. The subject is presented within a formal oval frame, a common convention for portraiture of the period, which directs the viewer's attention to the sitter's features and expression.

Bagelaar employs fine lines and cross-hatching to model the form of the face and the texture of the clothing. The sitter wears a dress with a ruffled collar, typical of the fashion during the early 1800s. Her hair is styled in a neat, curled arrangement, reflecting the aesthetic preferences of the era. The background within the oval is darkened to create a sense of depth, ensuring the subject remains the primary focus of the composition.

As an artist, Bagelaar was known for his proficiency in various printmaking techniques, often producing portraits and topographical studies. This specific work captures a sense of quiet dignity, common in private or family portraiture of the Dutch bourgeoisie. The print is characterised by its clean execution and balanced composition, avoiding unnecessary ornamentation to maintain a focus on the individual. The use of the oval format provides a sense of containment and formality, typical of the Neoclassical influence on portraiture. The paper retains its original tone, providing a neutral ground that complements the monochromatic palette of the etching. This piece offers a glimpse into the personal history of the Bagelaar family and the artistic practices of the time, documenting the appearance of Anna Susanna with clarity and restraint.