Style Imitating Art: Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh (1633-34) by Rembrandt & #SpreadTheKindness Link Up #259
About Style Imitating Art
Guess who is the new co-host for Style Imitating Art?! That would be this girl! I am so excited to join Salazar and Terri for this fun and inspiring series. I have been participating with them for the last year and when Salazar was looking for a new co-host, I volunteered faster than you can say Style Imitating Art! You can see all of my outfits for this series on my Style Imitating Art page.
Style Imitating Art is hosted by Salazar of 14 Shades of Grey, Terri of MeadowTree Style, and Shelbee of Shelbee on the Edge. Style Imitating Art challenges us to draw style inspiration from pieces of art. Every other Monday, one of the hosts, acting as curator, selects an inspiration image that they will each post on their blogs. The following Monday, each host shares her art inspired outfit. Participants are invited to submit their art inspired outfits to the curator by 10:00 p.m. EST on the Tuesday following the hosts’ art inspired outfit posts. The following day, Wednesday, the curator will share all of the submissions on her blog.
You don’t have to be a blogger to join! You are invited to share your images on Instagram or other social media platforms. Just be sure to tag Salazar, Terri, and Shelbee or use #TeamLOTSStyle and #StyleImitatingArt so the hosts know you have joined. Go have some fun in your closets and join the SIA challenge next week!
The Inspiration Artwork
The inspiration artwork was curated by Terri of MeadowTree Style. You can read why she has chosen this specific piece as her inspiration artwork here.
Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh, painted during 1633-34 by Rembrandt (Oil on Oak Wood, 1633-34)
About the Artist: Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (July 15, 1606-October 4, 1669), usually known simply as Rembrandt, was a Dutch artist during the Golden Age who possessed an innovative and prolific mastery of three separate mediums…painting, printmaking, and drawing. In the realm of art history, Rembrandt is generally considered one of the greatest visual artists to have ever lived. He is also recognized as the most important artist in Dutch art history.
Rembrandt was born on July 15, 1606, in Leiden, Dutch Republic (now the Netherlands), the ninth child of a well off miller and his wife, a baker’s daughter. As a young boy, he attended Latin school, and then enrolled in the University of Leiden at the age of 13 where he exhibited a great inclination towards painting. He had a few apprenticeships with skilled painters before opening his own studio in 1624 or 1625 when he was just 18 or 19 years old. In 1627, at the age of 21, he began accepting students under his own tutelage.
In 1629, Rembrandt was discovered by a Dutch statesmen who procured important commissions for him from the court of The Hague. This connection resulted in Prince Frederick Hendrik becoming a Rembrandt fan who continued purchasing paintings from him until 1646.
Rembrandt moved to Amsterdam in 1631 and began a very successful practice as a professional portraitist. In 1634, he married Saskia van Uylenburgh, the cousin of his art dealer roommate Hendrick van Uylenburgh. They moved into their own home in 1635 and although they were an affluent couple at this time, they were not immune from life’s tragedies. Their son Rumbartus died in 1635 at the age of 2 months followed by the death of their 3 week old daughter Cornelia in 1638. They had a second daughter, also named Cornelia, in 1640, who died just shortly after a month of life. Their fourth child Titus, born in 1641, was the only child to survive into adulthood. However, Saskia died soon after Titus was born, likely due to tuberculosis.
During Saskia’s illness, Geertje Dircx was hired to care for Titus and soon became Rembrandt’s lover. She was eventually committed to an asylum with the assistance of Rembrandt himself and then he subsequently began a relationship with his much younger maid, Hendrickje Stoffels, in the late 1640’s. In 1654, they had a daughter, also name Cornelia. They lived together as common law spouses until her death in 1663. They were never married because Rembrandt would have lost access to Titus’s trust that was established in Saskia’s will.
Rembrandt outlived all three of his great loves as well as his son Titus who passed away in 1668 leaving behind a baby daughter. On October 4, 1669, less than a year after his son died, Rembrandt passed away at the age of 63 leaving behind a 400 year old legacy that has shaped the history of art.
Considering the volumes of written work that exist about Rembrandt, I am going to stop here. There is so much fascinating information out there that is worth reading if you are interested in learning more.
About the Art: Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh, painted during 1633-34
Rembrandt painted many portraits of his wife, including the curated work for this week’s Style Imitating Art prompt. In typical Rembrandt portrait style, he angles the subject’s face in a way so that the nose creates a distinct line of demarcation between the brightly illuminated area and the shadowy area of the work. A face painted by Rembrandt will nearly always be partially eclipsed in shadow with a bright and obvious nose serving as the central focus for the viewer.
This particular painting is oil on oak wood and measures 99.5 cm (39.1 in) in height and 78.8 cm (31 in) in width. The work is currently part of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection in Germany which is based on the private art collection of William VIII, Landgrave of Hesse-Kassel.
Resources/References:
- Rembrandt on Wikipedia
- Saskia van Uylenburgh on Wikipedia
- Geertje Dircx on Wikipedia
- Hendrickje Stoffels on Wikipedia
- Rembrandt, Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh on Wikimedia Commons
- Three women in Rembrandt’s life: a goddess, a mistress and a maid
- Rembrandt and Saskia: a love story for the ages
About My Outfit Inspired by Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh, painted during 1633-34
I was really intrigued by the dark moody colors and rich textures that appear in this painting. The fabrics of Saskia’s dress appear to be velvets and silks with lots of extra adornments in gold, pearls, and feathers. I recently scored this gorgeous mustard colored velvet kimono from Target and I knew immediately I was going to incorporate it into this look. I also knew immediately that this super old dollar bin necklace from Walmart was going to make an appearance as well.
Wanting to pull in the dark shades of burgundy that dominate Saskia’s attire, I opted for over the knee platform boots in burgundy and other hints of burgundy in my hat and gloves. Big bold jewelry in gold and pearls seemed perfectly suited to match Saskia’s accessories game and a black bodycon dress laid the foundation to echo the black background of the painting. I scored this amazing Zara dress on a thrifting adventure a while back. You can see how I styled it with a red cape here.
I didn’t have anything feathery to add in but I think the tiny bit of faux furriness on the cuffs of my gloves does the trick in a perfectly subtle way.
I loved the final outfit result of this style challenge so much. The rich colors and textures made me feel so cozy and dramatic. I did end up wearing this outfit for a dinner date the same day I shot these photos. So that made me super happy!
Featured Favorites
To see more outfits inspired by Rembrandt’s Portrait of Saskia van Uylenburgh, painted during 1633-34, please visit Terri’s post for the complete roundup of submissions. You can also read the details of Terri’s own inspired outfit here and Salazar’s here. Have you joined the Style Imitating Art challenges yet? Be sure to check for the next prompt on Monday, January 31, 2022. I will be curating my first artwork as a co-host!
Reader Favorite (Most Clicked): Michele of Living Our Days
Fashion Favorite: Jess of Elegantly Dressed and Stylish
Non-Fashion Favorite: Jill of Doused in Pink
Keeping it on the edge,
Shelbee
Linking up with these Fabulous Link Parties.
Outfit Details: Kimono and Velvet Scarf-Target / Dress-Zara (Thrifted) / Boots-Shoe Dazzle / Necklace-Walmart / Hat and Gloves-Wona Trading / Bracelets and Earrings-Old
52 Comments
Nancy
What a story about his life right? We learned about that in elementary school. I only remembered he had a affair with his household help….. love the dress, its a Nancy dress! And it looks gorgeous on you!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Nancy! He was a fascinating man. I think I may have to go read some more! And I could totally see you rocking this dress, my friend.
xoxo
Shelbee
Terri Gardner
Gorgeous look, Shelbee! Your gold kimono is just the right accent. And great research too. Welcome aboard and a co-host. We are glad to have you.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Terri! I am so excited to get started! I will send you and Salazar my first pick tomorrow!
xoxo
Shelbee
Patrick Weseman
Looks so very nice. You nailed it.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Patrick!
xoxo
Shelbee
Marsha Banks
Oh, congratulations!! I can’t wait to see your first pick! I love these challenges and have so much fun coming up with a look. Yours is amazing! I love that necklace…from the dollar bin at WalMart? Wow! I really like the side by side with Saskia! I have to admit I’m always wondering what you’re going to write on these challenges…you go into more depth than I do! I hope you like mine…it will be on the blog tomorrow!
https://marshainthemiddle.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Marsha, thanks so much! I am super excited to be co-hosting this fun series! I can’t wait to share my first pick next week. Isn’t it crazy that this necklace was in the dollar bin?! I think it was originally like $10 but it was on clearance for $1 and I have worn it countless times. That’s definitely $1 well spent! I will be around to check out all the SIA posts today and tomorrow. I can’t wait to see what you came up with. Have a fabulous day, my friend!
xoxo
Shelbee
Pamela
I love a bit of history as my post of the day shows and when it includes fashion as well then it’s a double whammy! So good on you the outfit looks fabulous – I really would love a look into your cloffice, can’t imagine the extent of your wardrobe!!
Pamela
http://www.style-yourself-confident.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Pamela! My closet is overwhelming me these days and would probably make you gasp! Hahaha. I am needing a major closet clean out soon!
xoxo
Shelbee
Kathrine Eldridge
Congrats on being part of this collab now! I love this look for this piece of art. It’s stunning on you! The kimono is perfect and loving the fit of this black dress. It shows off your figure wonderfully. Thanks for the link up!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you so very much, Kathrine! I am so excited to take a more active role in this series! I am super excited to announce my first artwork next Monday. And I was really happy with this outfit. I felt so sassy and dramatic. I wore it out to dinner and got lots of compliments, too!
xoxo
Shelbee
Jill
I love that you always include the background of the artist. I always learn a new tidbit! You nailed this look! So gorgeous! Thank you so much for the feature!
Jill – Doused in Pink
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jill! I am glad that you enjoyed the little bit of artist history! I find people so fascinating…especially creative types. So I really enjoy learning about the person behind the art and it’s fun to share what I learn! It’s nice to know it’s appreciated!
xoxo
Shelbee
Deborah Stinedurf
Girl…you really nailed this! I love everything about this look! That dress is the perfect foundation piece for that amazing velvet duster & boots. xo
Debbie
http://www.yourstyledstory.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Debbie! I totally thought of you when I spotted this velvet duster! I have been wanting one for so long and while this mustard color was not my favorite, I was super excited to find a velvet duster that the color didn’t much matter! And this dress is an absolute favorite of mine.
xoxo
Shelbee
Amy
congratulations! You are the perfect co-host for this challenge. You nailed this month’s challenge for sure. What a fun and stylish outfit.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Aw, thanks so much, Amy! I am so excited to play a more active role in this series!
xoxo
Shelbee
jess jannenga
Thanks for the feature Shelbee! Rembrant really was a master at portraits. I love how your jewelry layered, depicts the collar on the painting. The velvet is a rich fabric worn then, and the gold color also adds to the richness. I also love that you encorportated burgundy in the hat and boots. Bravo! Congrats for hosting too. And I love that dress on you!
Jess xx
http://www.elegantlydressedandstylish.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Jess! This was a really inspiring piece to create an outfit from! I love all these rich, dark jewel tones. And burgundy and mustard is such a striking combination to me. I felt fabulous in this outfit!
xoxo
Shelbee
Christina Morley
That was brave of you to choose such a detailed painting to match and you did it so well! I also loved reading about Rembrandt. My daughter is close to The Hague and the family she is au pairing for are purchasing her a museum pass to take the girls. I’m so excited for her. I loved visiting the museums in Europe and I especially remember Amsterdam and seeing originals by great artists like Rembrandt and Van Gogh. Truly awe-inspiring. Have a lovely week!
Tina
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Tina! This was a really great choice for the art this time around. I was really inspired by it! That is so cool that your daughter has a pass to The Hague! I am certain that it is very awe inspiring to see the original works of the greatest classic artists in person. I need more museum adventures in my life!
xoxo
Shelbee
Michele Morin
You are stunning as a Rembrandt super model!
And what a surprise to be most clicked! Almost makes me sad though. So many people are struggling with anxiety. I do want to step into that space with alternative strategies.
Thanks for all you do!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Michele, thank you so much! I agree with you that it is kind of bittersweet to have that particular post clicked the most times. But thankfully you are opening discussions that people clearly need right now. So keep doing the good work and fighting the good fight, my friend! Thanks for all you do as well.
xoxo
Shelbee
Michelle
Many congrats on being the new SIA cohost! And I adore this outfit. It is perfect for the challenge. You nailed all of the colors and textures. I love the velvet jacket.
It’s so cool that Rembrandt was able to be recognized as a great artist during his life rather than after his death like so many. People’s lives were so heartbreaking before modern medicine. It’s hard to understand how they coped.
Michelle
https://mybijoulifeonline.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Michelle! I was really happy with this outfit. It made me feel super pretty. I have been taking note of the artists who gained recognition during their lives versus the ones who aren’t recognized until after death and it really is a fascinating study in humans. I just really enjoy learning the stories about creative people. I find it all so fascinating!
xoxo
Shelbee
Lizzie
I love the inspiration! You nailed it! This totally brings me back to my art history days. It’s so interesting, isn’t it?
Llizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Lizzie! It is so fun to learn about art and art history. I remember taking Intro to Art History my freshmen year of college and I did not appreciate it as much as I do now. So this series has been such a wonderful addition to my weekly rotation. I have so much fun with this!
xoxo
Shelbee
Alexandra
Wow! That necklace is incredible! I can definitely see the resemblance.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks, Alexandra!
xoxo
Shelbee
Laura Bambrick
The colors and fabrics in the painting really have a ‘rich’ air to them so your choice of the velvet kimono and that fabulous necklace work out perfectly!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Laura, thank you so much. The velvet and the gold necklace were the first things to inspire me for this styling. I loved the end result so much and was so happy I had somewhere to go while wearing it!
xoxo
Shelbee
Rosemary Davis
Shelbee,
This is such a cool post! So very interesting. Ilove your outfit.
Thanks for for hosting today.
Rosemary
http://www.distinctlysouthernstyle.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Rosemary! These are some of my favorite posts to write!
xoxo
Shelbee
Cheryl Shops
I always enjoy this series, and you are serving major Dutch Master vibes today! Also, that dress looks fantastic on you, lady!
Cheryl Shops | http://www.cherylshops.net
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Cheryl! I was so happy with how this one turned out! I felt fantastic in this dress and was so pleased that I had somewhere to go wearing it!
xoxo
Shelbee
Mitch
Gorgeous shots! You have become so slender!
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Mitch! I really appreciate that.
xoxo
Shelbee
Joanne
You are going to make a great co-host for the SIA link up! You always do a great job pairing your outfits and I can’t wait to see what works of art you’ll choose. This dress is a fabulous look for you and I love that pairing of the velvet duster.
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Aw, Joanne, thanks so much! I am so excited to be able to choose some works as well as share my style. I think my first one is going to make lots of people smile!
xoxo
Shelbee
Rena
Shelbee,
The inspiration piece served you well. You look fabulous in this outfit (although you must have been quite cold taking the outside photos).
Rena
http://www.finewhateverblog.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Rena, thanks so much! This was another wonderful inspiration piece that got my creativity flowing. I am always cold whether I am inside or outside so I just grin and bear it for a few minutes to catch some photos. Haha.
xoxo
Shelbee
Carol
Fun photos! I really like this color palette — especially the pops of brick-red in the boots, glove, and hat. The dramatic statement necklace really finishes off the outfit nicely.
Carol
http://www.scribblingboomer.com
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Carol! I was so pleased with the outcome of this style challenge. And I feel really great in this outfit, too!
xoxo
Shelbee
Suzy Turner
You absolutely nailed it, Shelbee! There isn’t one detail that isn’t perfect in this outfit! I love the textures, the kimono, the dress, the boots, the jewellery—everything! You look freaking amazing.
It was wonderful catching up yesterday, and I’m super excited about our new monthly collab series!
My lasagne was a huge success by the way lol!
Huge hugs
Suzy xx
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Aw, thanks so much, Suzy! I felt so great in this outfit! This velvet duster makes me so happy! I have to create some other outfits with it soon. I am so glad hat your lasagna was a hit and you had a wonderful dinner with your friend. I am looking forward to our new monthly series, too. I have lots of outfits I need to get working on for a bunch of different monthly collabs. Eek. I better get on it!
xoxo
Shelbee
katherines corner
Congrats on your new gig! How fun. I love the theme , you look awesome as always. xo P.S. I’m sending you an email about something (smiley face)
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thank you so much, Kathrine! I got your email and I squealed with joy at the Happy Buddhas! I sent you an email back! Thank you so much for thinking of me!
xoxo
Shelbee
Chickenruby
I love this series, you do it so well. Thanks for linking with #pocolo
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Thanks so much, Suzanne! I really appreciate that!
xoxo
Shelbee
Stephanie 139a
Wow – that is snow (spot the Brit!) – thanks for sharing with #PoCoLo
shelbeeontheedge@gmail.com
Hahaha, thanks for the giggle, Stephanie! We do get a lot of snow here!
xoxo
Shelbee