Making Her Mark – Self Portraits II

On By ResaIn Making Her Mark

Resa – Welcome back to “Making Her Mark” – Self Portrait Series! I’m your host, Resa with special guest host Rebecca Budd – curator of Chasing Art.

Resa – So Rebecca, today we’re shining the spotlight on another accomplished female artist once buried by history, Amalia von Königsmarck.

I “fell in love” with our last artist, Sarah Biffen. Amalia von Königsmarck does not inspire the same “fell in love” in me, yet hers is nonetheless a valuable contribution to the world of art, and art remembering us. Can you speak to that?

Rebecca – Amalia von Königsmarck’s contribution to the world of art is indeed remarkable, especially considering the complex, perilous and politically charged environment in which she lived. The intricate dynamics of the royal court, especially during the Great Northern War, as well as her spouse’s involvement in the service of Augustus II the Strong, led to dire consequences. Given her status as a dilettante painter and her involvement in painting as a hobby or pastime, it is likely that her primary motivation for creating art was personal enjoyment and creative expression.  I believe that in the midst of uncertainty, Amalia chose to follow her creative spirit, which is a reminder to me that art generates positive outcomes.  That thought resonated with me when I viewed your photographs.

Resa – Okay, now I’m “fell in love”with Amalia, too! So, Rebecca, let’s check out the details on what you’ve said and what else you have discovered about Amalia von Königsmarck!

Amalia von Königsmarck – A Dilettante Painter

Amalia von Königsmarck (1663–1740) hailed from a distinguished German-Swedish noble family. Her paternal grandfather, Field Marshal Hans Christoff von Königsmarck, notably served on the Swedish side in the Thirty Years’ War and was subsequently honored with the title of a Swedish count. Meanwhile, her father, Conrad Christoff von Königsmarck, held notable roles in the Swedish possessions of Bremen and Verden, among others.

Amalia von Königsmarck married Carl Gustaf Lewenhaupt, a Swedish nobleman, in 1686. Their union was a significant aspect of her life amidst the complex dynamics of the royal court.

Allegory with Self Portrait and Profile Portrait of Queen Eleonora – 1689

Resa – The above photo I took is from the “Making Her Mark” exhibit. I was lured in by its richness. This painting was not behind glass, and on close inspection I gasped when I saw the 335 year old cracks in the oils. I thought – Rebecca would love these cracks.

Rebecca – I do love those cracks, Resa!!  This is a 335-year-old painting!!  I believe that those delicate cracks add to overall aesthetic appeal of the artwork by providing a sense of history and authenticity. The cracks, also known as craquelure, can be seen as a unique feature that showcases the passage of time and the natural aging process of the artwork. I find that the presence of cracks enhances the texture and visual interest of the painting, giving it a distinct character that sets it apart from newer, flawless pieces.

Amalia von Königsmarck’s Artistic Pursuits

Amalia von Königsmarck was known for her literary and intellectual achievements as well as for her artistic endeavors. As a member of the royal court, she delved into the world of painting and portrayed various notable figures of her time. One of her renowned paintings is a self portrait dating back to 1688, offering a personal glimpse into her life and artistic expression.

In addition to her accomplishments in visual arts, Amalia participated in the amateur theatre of the royal court, an endeavor encouraged by Queen Ulrika Eleonora of Sweden. This involvement in the theatre highlighted her multifaceted interests and contributions to the cultural life of the royal court.

In the painting, Amalia holds her portrait of Queen Ulrika, a bold nod to her relationship with the queen.

One of her hands holds paintbrushes, depicting herself as a painter. (see full painting)It is the first known image of a Swedish female painter.

Although Amalia had studied under David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl, a Swedish nobleman and portrait painter, Amalia was a dilettante painter. This refers to an individual who engages in painting as a hobby or pastime, without pursuing it as a serious or professional occupation.

Dilettante painters typically approach art with enthusiasm and interest but may not have undergone formal training or dedicated extensive time and effort to develop their skills to a professional level. Their works are often created for personal enjoyment or as a form of creative expression, without the intention of displaying or selling them in a professional art context.

Amalia and the Great Northern War

In 1695, amidst the intricate dynamics of the royal court, Amalia Lewenhaupt (Königsmarck) persuasively influenced her spouse to enter into the service of Augustus II the Strong, who was at that time engaged in a romantic relationship with her sister Aurora. However, this decision led to dire consequences, as her spouse faced the confiscation of property and a sentence of death in his absence by Charles XII of Sweden in 1703, during the tumultuous Great Northern War. Tragically, her spouse passed away in exile in Hamburg, Germany, in the same year.

The other 2 women in this allegorical portrait:

Left – winged and holding a trumpet is likely Fama, goddess of rumour and fame.

Right – The woman points to the queen while gazing out of frame.

Resa – So Rebecca, I add the thought here that the pointing indicates that Amalia is saying that Queen Eleonora is of rumour and fame?

Rebecca – While the specific meaning of the painting, “Allegory with self-portrait and profile portrait of Ulrika Eleonora the Elder” is open to interpretation, the inclusion of the self-portrait alongside the profile portrait of the queen suggests a significant personal connection between Amalia and Queen Ulrika Eleonora. The portrayal may convey Amalia’s admiration for the queen and her acknowledgment of the queen’s reputation and prominent status. Queen Ulrika Eleonora was renowned for her religious devotion, patience, mild demeanor, and charitable nature, which endeared her to the public. Her modest beauty and dignified presence further enhanced her image as a symbol of hope and lasting peace. Embraced with enthusiasm by the public, she was perceived as a beacon of optimism, and her personal merits bolstered her popularity, solidifying her status as a beloved and influential figure in her time.

Amalia’s Return to Sweden

Following the upheavals and challenges she encountered, Amalia Lewenhaupt eventually journeyed back to Sweden in 1722. Notably, her return to her homeland was accompanied by the fortune-teller Höffern, perhaps seeking guidance and solace after the tumultuous events she had endured.

In 1740, at the age of 76, Amalia Lewenhaupt peacefully passed away in Övedskloster, thereby transcending the trials and tribulations of her lifetime. Her final years were marked by the tranquility of her surroundings, providing a contrast to the tumultuous events she had previously experienced.

Regrettably, Amalia Lewenhaupt’s poignant story was further shadowed by the tragic fate of her firstborn son, Charles Emil Lewenhaupt, who faced condemnation for treason and was ultimately executed in 1743, thus adding another layer of sorrow to her enduring legacy.

Resa –  Rebecca, I can’t thank you enough for being here with me to present Amalia von Königsmarck. It’s somewhat jolting to realize that she was on earth 361 years ago.

Rebecca – Thank you, Resa, for this extraordinary opportunity to collaborate with you on “Making Her Mark”. It is truly fascinating to unravel the multifaceted contributions of remarkable women from past centuries and to witness the enduring impact they have on the world of art and culture. These women have left a profound legacy that continues to inspire and shape our artistic landscape today. By delving into their lives and artistic endeavors, we gain invaluable insights into the richness of history and the enduring influence of these visionary individuals.

Thank you again and again Rebecca!

You can visit Rebecca on Chasing Art! Also for links on the research, just click on the above banner!

169 thoughts on “Making Her Mark – Self Portraits II”

  1. Resa, a superlative post and collaboration between Rebecca and yourself. It is great that you are both shining a light on female artists across time and I enjoyed learning about Amalia von Königsmarck, her art and the tumultuous era in which she lived. So few know anything about Swedish history, its role as a power house for a while that it’s great you shared some of this as well her personal experience and work. I had no idea that the queen of Sweden at the time was so popular and respected! Oh, I love the discussion about the cracks in the paint and will look out for these signs more than ever, recognising how they enhance an old work of art. A wonderful and erudite read this morning, thank you both! 😀❤️

    1. Thank you so much Annika!

      Yes, I learned about a slice of Sweden’s history that I knew nothing about from working on this post with Rebecca. This is a prime example of art remembering us.

      I am thrilled Rebecca is helping me present these women in European art history! I was like a kid in a candy shop when I saw the 230 works by women from 1400-1800.

      I’m sure I annoyed everyone with my excessive picture taking, but I have an art blog and sharing this is a must!

      Having Rebeca with me has added a lot of historic weight to the presentation. She is simply amazing with her passion for the behind the scenes facts. I only wish I could have magically transported her to the show.

      Anyway, we have more Self Portrait posts coming up, and she has said she would help me with another important category. If all goes well, she may agree to join me in yet one more. She is busy, though, and I shouldn’t be greedy about her time and ability.

      Thank you for this fabulous comment, Annika!

      🌹❦🌟

      Ps. I had to look up “erudite”. Yayayay!

    2. Many thanks for your lovely comments, Annika. I am truly grateful to Resa for inviting me to collaborate on “Making her Mark” I agree that we know very little of Swedish history – I should know more because my grandfather was Swedish – Yikes!!! Why do we know more about English history? That was the question that came to me when I was researching this post. I had never heard about Amalia before Resa sent me her name, and knew only that there was a “Great Northern War”, but had no specifics except for the title of the conflict. Here is what I discovered: The prominence of English history in global education and media can be attributed to the British Empire’s vast influence, the widespread use of the English language, and the impact of English literature. Swedish history, on the other hand, is less known internationally due to Sweden’s smaller global footprint and the dominance of English-speaking countries in shaping historical narratives.”

      So a huge thank you, Resa, for creating “Making Her Mark” exploration. I have learned so much since you invited me to join you. You are bringing out the stories that have been safely held in the folds of history.

    1. It is my (and Rebecca’s) pleasure, Michael! I wish everyone could see this art exhibition. Unfortunately it has already shown in Baltimore, and I believe Toronto is its only other stop.

      It is also exciting to me that 2 cities in 2 different countries made this special event come true.

      Cheers!

  3. Thank you, Resa and Rebecca, for illuminating the artist and time period. Thank you also for the research links. In a brief perusal, I discovered that Amalia’s sister, Aurora was also interested in the arts, particularly literature, and the French novelist George Sand ( a woman) is a descendant.

    1. Merril, you are amazing!

      How fabulous to realize George Sand is a descendant.

      There is no end to learning about, and through history. Art, in all of its forms is a conduit to this end.

      I’m thrilled you checked out the links!

        1. Gee whiz! A Ph. D in history is wonderful. I know that about you, because I end up on your website from time to time, by accident. 🤭
          Somehow, I think that has contributed to your gift of poetry writing. 🤔

    2. Oh Merril – you went down the rabbit hole, didn’t you!!!? Isn’t is fun!!! I am so pleased you mentioned Aurora’s story, which is full of political intrigue and romantic machinations. And then there was her illegitimate son who became the Marshal General of France. I found her portrait, but not the name of the artist. I hope that Amalia was the artist, but that is just my imaginings.

        1. It is becoming easier to find information in our age of technology, isn’t it, Merrill? This mini-research into Amalia’s life has prompted me to deepen my research of the Northern Wars that occurred between 1558 – 1721. Rabbit holes can go very, very deep!!! LOL!!!

    1. Thank you Luisa!

      I’m having the best time working on this project with Rebecca.

      The next artist we are highlighting is from Italy. Wow! 🌹❦

    2. I am delighted that you joined Resa and me on this profound journey, Luisa. Resa is an amazing artist, photographer and communicator. She builds creative communities wherever she goes!!!

  5. This post is absolutely terrific, Resa and Rebecca! So informative as it offers a fascinating glimpse of almost-unknown history. (The history of accomplished women from long ago is too often little known. 😦 )A visual treat, too. Thank you!

    1. Dave,
      Welcome!
      It really is an almost unknown history.
      I agree with what you say about accomplished women from the far past.
      This show was like a thousand cups of coffee for me. Unfortunately, other than Toronto and Baltimore, I am unaware of it gracing any other cities.
      Rebecca is so perfect to join me in this. She’s already researched the next artist! 👩‍🎨🧐

    2. Dave – I cannot tell you have thrilled I was to receive Resa’s invitation to join her on “Making Her Mark”. I look forward to her e-mails giving me the next name to look up. It is always an exciting unveil. My greatest takeaway from this project is how art holds invaluable historical narratives, providing visual insights into past events, cultures, and norms. Resa said is best with these words: “Art remembers us”! Art reveals beliefs, values, and traditions of civilizations, aiding our understanding of historical contexts. Paintings, sculptures, and architecture act as tangible human records, offering a unique historical perspective beyond just facts!!!

      1. Very glad, Rebecca, that Resa’s invitation was offered! Art indeed “contains multitudes” (along with the occasional stray fiber from a brush 🙂 ).

  6. Thank you, Resa and Rebecca, for bringing this marvelous artist to the forefront of awareness. A fascinating life for sure not to mention the beauty she created.

    1. Welcome (🐂) John!
      This art is all so exciting for me, and Rebecca… really I hope for all.
      We have more female artists to highlight in our Self Portraits series.
      Women really have made their mark!
      OX

    2. I am delighted that you joined Resa and me in the AGO, John. Resa’s photos give us a front row view of this exhibition. Consider this painting is 335 years old and has lived centuries beyond the artist – and we still connect with her through her creativity. I am fascinated by what art teaches us about the rich history of civilizations, the evolution of art forms, and the diverse cultural expressions around the world. One of my takeaways from “Marking Her Mark” is how art inspires creativity, critical thinking, and appreciation for the beauty found in various art movements.

      1. Art has the ability to bring divergent views of the world together in a common appreciation for its beauty and the creativity of the artists. Thanks again, Rebecca.

  7. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

    Fantastic post, Resa. Rebecca is so knowledgeable about so many things. What a great painting.

      1. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

        Tales of brave Resa, and how her naked eyes were tortured by the painting sweetly calling her to partake in the artist’s bliss…

        1. Lol!
          It is a bliss!
          My fave painting of the entire show (so far) is the only music themed piece. It will be in the next post in this series. xx

    2. Oh, Tim!!! You are too kind. I had never heard of Amalia’s name before Resa sent me the invitation to join her on Making Her Mark. This collaboration has provided me with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to explore women artists who are mostly unknown in our time. The internet provided a great deal of information on Amalia, so it is becoming easier to conduct research in the age of technology. One of my takeaways, has been that seeing the world through the eyes of women, we can challenge the traditional male-dominated narratives in art history, promote gender equality, and inspire future generations of female artists. Resa has a way of creating opportunities to learn and share knowledge and experience. I am having so much fun!!!

      2. Timothy Price's avatar Timothy Price

        Women have had a lot of impact on the arts. You might like to explore women in photography. This Google Arts presentation covers women who made major contributions to photography early on: https://artsandculture.google.com/story/7-early-women-photographers-you-should-know/4wKyJIdyxSbjIg. I love Julia Margaret Cameron’s work. She got so much shit in her day, yet she was way ahead of her time. She is one who I have thought needs to be brought back to modern times so she could express herself without the technicalities of photography getting in the way of her creativity.

        3. Tim – many, many thanks for this link. I knew the name – Julie Margaret Cameron, but I don’t know her backstory. And I had never heard of the other women photographers mention in this article. You have given me new focus for the coming months. I continue to learn and learn and learn. Participating in a creative community like ours has increased my knowledge exponentially.

    1. Teagan!
      There were many amazing female artists from the past featured in this show. I can hardly wait to show them all off.
      Thank goodness Rebecca is helping me with some!
      HUGS with wings!

    2. Teagan – I am sharing a cup of coffee with you when I read your comments. I am so glad that you joined Resa and me at the AGO. I have never had the opportunity to visit this art gallery, until now with the magic of virtual travel. Heading off to have my second cup of coffee!!

          1. It’s hard to be peppy in this heat. It’s more like ploppy.

            Speaking of heat, how are you doing with the fires so close? Are you experiencing smoke?
            I think of you, Teagan!
            HUGS

            1. You are so kind, Resa. Fortunately, re smoke, the winds blow in the opposite direction. Although the air quality has been poor, it’s not from those fires. (Frequent bad air here, but the cause is a mystery.) I get over anxious because I can’t get current updated fire info. It makes me feel that I also wouldn’t know if there was one right around the corner. But we are not at risk from the current group of fires.
              Yesterday the fire area had a very severe storm with baseball sized hail and flooding. (The floods are worse because two years ago they also had a big fire, but not as big as this one, so that burned mountain top has nothing to stop the water.)
              Naturally that torrential storm still wasn’t enough to put out a huge fire. (500+ homes utterly destroyed, and much of that downtown area, not to mention 8 square miles of forest, and still growing.) So now the poor firefighters have to deal with both. I can’t imagine having to go through what the residents are enduring. People where I live are trying to locate family who live there. Cell phones are out and the highway is closed by the fire.
              Anyhow, thanks for your good thoughts. Big hugs back.

    2. Resa is taking up on an amazing art journey, isn’t she Marina!!? I am learning, through this collaboration, that we must study art history because we gain insights into different cultures, societies, and historical periods through visual representation. As an artist, you are adding to our history, Marina. So many, many thanks for being an artist!

    1. Shey – you were the one I thought about when I read about Amalia sister, Aurora! What a story!! Aurora von Königsmarck was known for her beauty, intelligence, and charm, much like your amazing characters. She had a scandalous affair with Augustus the Strong, Elector of Saxony. The countess, known as “the most famous woman of two centuries” according to Voltaire, passed away at the age of sixty-five in Quedlinburg. Her great-great-granddaughter, Aurore Dupin, went on to become the renowned French novelist George Sand. Her son became the famous Marshal General of France. Resa opened a rabbit hole when she sent me Amalia’s name. LOL!!!

      2. Oh Rebecca, you two amazing women have made my day. Truly. AND you mention George Sand. She’s a heroine of mine you know. I love the fact she created scandal dressing as a man when initially she did it so she could read newpapers for free in places women weren’t allowed. And she’d no money cos her man wouldn’t give her any in the hop[e of driving her back to him. Epic woman.

        1. I need to read something she wrote, and more written about George Sand.

          In our 21st century world many women are still struggling to be people, have human rights.

          “If there is one message that echoes forth from this conference, let it be that human rights are women’s rights and women’s rights are human rights, once and for all.”

          1. Well, here’s the thing re my upbringing re women which was unusual for the time. I was raised to believe that men and women were equal , but women could do certain things better, just as men could do too by a mum and ..dad especially who had had the most awful upbringing. I was taught by him how to build, saw, fish, lay bricks, take down trees box, and defuse bombs..yeah, cos in the army, that was what he did, how to wire, plugs, houses, the lot actually at a time when a woman going into a pub was a bad woman, and I brought my girls up theway I was brought up. And right now I am beyond shocked re what is going on.actually at the rolling back of rights women fought for years t by those who never fought at al.

        2. Shey and Resa – I just found George Sand on Gutenberg Press. Most of her books found there are in French. However I found one that I think you would enjoying looking into. This quote is from her introduction to her book “ Indiana”, which tells me everything I need to know about George Sand’s determination and resilience:

          “Thank God, I have forgotten the names of those who tried to discourage
          me at my first appearance, and who, being unable to say that my first
          attempt had fallen completely flat, tried to distort it into an
          incendiary proclamation against the repose of society. I did not expect
          so much honor, and I consider that I owe to those critics the thanks
          which the hare proffered the frogs, imagining from their alarm that he
          was entitled to deem himself a very thunderbolt of war.

          GEORGE SAND.

          Nohant, May, 1852.”

          https://www.gutenberg.org/cache/epub/63445/pg63445.txt

          Many thanks to you both!!!

    2. Thank you, Shey!
      There’s a lot more to look at, and I am revelling in each moment of sharing. It’s crazy that this exhibit is only seen in 2 cities, Toronto and Baltimore. 235 works, all by women ; 1400 – 1800.
      xxx

      1. Oh my lord, Resa you are always so amazingly kind. xxxxxxxxxxx I see the immortal words George Sand in Rebecca’s comment. She was something else. This is an amazing post and collaboration xxxxxxxxxx

  11. Resa is taking up on an amazing art journey, isn’t she Marina!!? I am learning, through this collaboration, that we must study art history because we gain insights into different cultures, societies, and historical periods through visual representation. As an artist, you are adding to our history, Marina. So many, many thanks for being an artist!

  12. Dear Resa and Rebecca, you’ve certainly opened a portal to a most intriguing and interesting subject. I’m fascinated by the exciting life of this lady. The portraits are so beautiful. It’s uplifting to direct our attention to the women past and present who inspire and makes us stop and realize that women have paid such a huge role in our artistic world. Thank you both, thus us beautifully displayed and directed.
    You two are fabulous

    xoxoxoxo

    1. Thank you dear Holly!
      I just couldn’t let these women go, after I’d seen the exhibition.
      Seeing as how only 2 cities seem to be hosting this show, Toronto and Baltimore, it made sense to share.
      The AGO allows taking pics with small cameras or phones (no lights, flashes, tripods, equipment, of any kind, fashion or other shoots, etc.) They allow social media sharing, but not for $$. No photos can be used for any commercial purpose.
      How could I resist?
      Plus there’s so much more to the artists, and Rebecca is really adding to the presentations.

      Fabulous? Takes one to know two!
      xoxoxoxo

        1. & I’m so happy you accepted!
          I believe I recently said, If I had some paint, I’d throw it at you.
          Your reply – And I’d catch it!
          Love that, Rebecca!

      2. This is such a tribute to women I love it. We deserve first place for a change and there’s so many amazing women in the art world that do not get the attention they deserve. It’s always the me. Even Frida took
        A back seat to Dega and now her paintings are worth many times more than his. So, hats off to thes ladies that made a mark and to you two for highlighting them.
        xoxoxo

    2. I agree wholeheartedly, Holly – very well said!!! These women have been a huge influence in our artistic world. The question that kept popping into my mind was: “Why do we view male artists as being more creative?” I understand that historically, societal norms and gender stereotypes have influenced the perception of creativity, often portraying men as more naturally creative than women. I believe that we are seeing a new paradigm arise where we recognize that creativity knows no gender boundaries – both men and women artists have made significant contributions to the artistic world throughout history. And that gives me great comfort!!

      1. That question is delved deeply into in the 1971 essay by Linda Nochlin (Art Historian educated at Vassar, Columbia and New York Universities) – “Why Have There Been No Great Women Artists?”
        She has insightful answers. It is a most enlightening read.
        As a matter of fact, when I walked into the MHM exhibit the title of the essay was emblazoned across the wall. Free download – 26 pages of sanity in an insane world – https://www.writing.upenn.edu/library/Nochlin-Linda_Why-Have-There-Been-No-Great-Women-Artists.pdf
        No, women are not lesser men!
        Rebecca, yes, I agree a new paradigm is arising!

      2. I would love to see female creatives get the attention they deserve. The only period I can recall where women held their own among artists was during the surrealist movement.
        This is a wonderful idea and I’m looking forward to the rest !

        1. Me too! lol
          There’s a lot more besides self portraits. There were 236 works, all by women, in the exhibition. The intention is to share as much as possible over the next months.
          Rebecca is helping with another category!!!

        2. I agree, Holly – despite their talent and contributions to the art world, women artists have frequently been overlooked and marginalized. It wasn’t until recent years that efforts to acknowledge and celebrate the work of women artists have gained more traction, but as you said so well, there is still progress to be made in achieving true equality in the art world. The article that Resa added in a link is brilliant. I am still digesting the contents.

          Resa – your “Marking Her Mark” series is in line with efforts to “acknowledge and celebrate” women artists. I am honoured to be invited to collaborate with you. I confess that every name that you gave me to research was unknown to me.

          1. It’s so exciting bringing women into the light, which is what this exhibition was about.
            It’s a project that took many years to put together by a partnership of the AGO and the Baltimore Art Gallery.
            It was already in Baltimore & I believe after Toronto all the art goes back to the owners, largely private, but some public.

            This collection should be shown in many more cities. ITs not just the art that is valuable (each piece individually) and a one time experience to see, but the message this vast collection sends out.

    1. You have a point, Jan! I wouldn’t want to be a woman back then, anywhere.

      Still, if one could do art, that would be a good situation.

      I think I would have been stuck on a spinning wheel or weaving.

      Thank you for your comment!

    2. Jan – you made a very interesting point of how seasonal and weather conditions influence art – one the I want to follow up. I grew up in an isolated mining town in Northern Manitoba, Canada. I walked to school in the dark and walked home in the dark. In summer it would almost be 24 hours of daylight. I think those extremes would influence artistic endeavours. Many thanks for that thought.

  14. What a fantastic story! It is an excellent painting by a brilliant painter. Thank you both, Resa and Rebecca, for this astounding introduction. I am in love with Amalia, too!😉🙏💖💕

    1. Aladin, I wish everyone could see this exhibition!
      Really, it was a once in a lifetime experience for me.
      Anyway, we will be showcasing a lot more women before my photos from the show are exhausted.
      🌹🌟❦💓

        1. You, dear Aladin are a lovely man. I hope one day all men and women see each other as equal partners on the planet. ❦ xo hugs & 🌹💓

    2. Aladin – you always add such joy to any conversation!! I am with you – I am in love with Amalia, too! Thanks to Resa, we are able to see this exhibition through her lens. I am having so much fun!!!

  15. I didn’t know that hobbyist painters had their own name: dilettante painter. That’s good to know. Amalia’s art looks very good for a hobbyist. The age of the painting is amazing. Many of the artworks in the Rijksmuseum are from the 16th century.

    2. Dilettante painter was a new concept to me, too, Robbie. I had to look up the definition in the dictionary. How wonderful to be able to visit the Rijksmuseumn. I loved following your artistic journey on Instagram. In my exploration, I tried to find someone who had influenced Amalia’s artistic path. Her family was military/political and didn’t seem to have any connection to artists who may have guided Amalia’s interest in painting. It seemed she came to painting simply by wanting to be creative. I find her fascinating.

      1. Amalia did study a bit under David Klöcker Ehrenstrahl, a Swedish nobleman and portrait painter.
        That is according to the mini plaque by her painting at the AGO.

  16. This is brilliant! Great series you’ve got going here. Does make ONE wonder about this, the subjugation of women over the last 100++ years and who was blocked from what. The good news is Beethoven was just a man… with very long hair… hmmmmmmmm.

      1. Yes well, as I hope you realise, I joke about that and support women on this over dickhead guys. A lot to ponder in the sense you get Andrew Tate sorts and the manosphere. The toxic masculinity. The pondering bit is how they never question the structure of capitalism and its obvious failings. It’s always the easy targets.

        Although I’ll add to that Justin Trudeaux has a nice butt. I’m a geezer. I can say that.

        1. I know 100% you support women.
          Your Agony Aunt is constantly exposing men.

          Ha! But will T’s butt cross the finish line in the next year’s election?

          The right is gaining popularity, here. T is too left.
          Sigh!
          The centre seems a forgotten idea, in a world of “my way or the hiway!”
          xx

          1. Politics should just be Jim Morrison, his music, his music, his big beards, and that’s it. Or something. Okay, maybe that has some seriocomic failings…

    1. I love those last two words: “More, Please!!!” Yes!!! Let’s have more. Resa has given us all a wonderful way to explore the many contributions of women artists!!

  18. Hi Resa + Rebecca! Thanks for another fascinating Self Portrait edition. Interesting to read about Amalia’s story.

    WOW, a 335-year-old painting!!  Without having seen the painting in person, I’d agree with Rebecca that those delicate cracks must have added to overall aesthetic appeal of the artwork.

    1. Ruth,
      So happy you are enjoying our series. Each female artist is special.
      History is intriguing.
      The cracks are a true thing of beauty.
      And I love having you pop by for a visit!

  19. Hi dear Resa artista and friend Rebecca, this post looks SO enticing and i LOVE the whole concept of the Self-Portait-Series and shining a light on forgotten female artists! Just brilliant! I will take this one in on the weekend – but already feeling super inspired just by taking a first glimpse!! Muchas gracias and wishing you a FABULOUS summer over there, dear Resa (and friend:)) Mucho amor xoxoxo

      1. Hi darling Resa, thank you!! I am not blogging yet – just saw your sweet comment from last November on my blog and felt a strong pull to say hello to you!!! I am currently involved in a few projects (nutrition studies, a painting gig, teaching) BUT blogging is still on my mind!!! I guess I am still digesting the onlinecreep stuff. BUT getting there! Sending much much much love to you beautiful soul!! xoxoxo

        1. Ahh, I think of you often. HELLO!!!!!
          It’s so sad someone creeped you out!
          It was nice having you out here in blog world.

          Maybe the creep died?
          Sending love back to a beautiful soul! xoxoxoxo

          1. That’s so nice to hear that you think of me often!! I am very grateful for you, (too). Yes, that was quite a disheartening experience with the creep. Anyways, you just gave me a burst of heartfelt inspiriation to develop that new blog vision:) Thank you and talk soon, mucho amor para ti SIEMPRE!!! xoxoxoxo

            1. Mucho amor para ti tambien!

              A new blog vision! That sounds great. Leave the creep eating your dust!

              Also, you can do things like MODERATE ALL COMMENTS. That way you can toss idiots in the Spam. Then whenever they come by, they are in Spam. Never comment on someone’s blog if you are unsure. Likes are okay, but once you comment they have your email.

              xoxoxo

              1. Aww thank you amiga artista, it’s so sweet of you to give me these superhelpful suggestions!!! I did not know about others having my email automatically when I comment on their blogs!! Thanks again, gorgeous.

                And also THANK YOU for this super fascinating piece of written art on the artist Amalia von Koenigsmarck! I really enjoyed learning about her life and creative passions!! I have always loved learning about inspiring women from century’s past!! Loved the reminder that “art generatives positive outcomes” – SO true. It was also fab to learn about the craqueleures and to witness both your ladies passion about this fascinating topic!! Mucho amor y hasta prontito, querida amiga!

                1. Yay!!
                  We will be doing another female artist focus soon. I’m just starting to write it …so not before a week, maybe 10 days.

                  SO, come back and revel in our sisters from the past and it will help us stay in touch.

                  Be well and stay beautiful!
                  Your admiring friend in Canada.
                  BESOS!!
                  xoxoxoxoxoxxo

  20. I missed this when you posted. Very interesting artist! I think people need to avoid political intrigues in a day when that means war and executions 😉 Very interesting bit of history – There should be a movie about her life. Thanks for introducing this artist.

    1. Thank you, Brian!
      Interesting that no matter what time period one investigates, there is war somewhere.
      I had no idea about a great northern 30 year war. ❦❦

      1. La guerre de trente ans? Yep. There also was a 7 year old war, a Spanish succession war, etc. Europe has been a big messy battlefield for over 2,000 years…

          1. Yeah. “Close” is the word. I used to work in the Defence industry in the mid 80’s. That’s when the Soviets put mid-range nuclear missiles at the East German border. That was close enough to hit (Germany of course) France. Reagan (Whom I don’t like much) together with Kohl and Mitterrand agreed to put similar missiles on the West German side of the border. The Russians balked away.

  22. A fab post ladies. I’d never heard of Amalia and enjoyed learning about her and her creative talents. I can’t even imagine self portraits done hundreds of years ago. Great collaboration and information. Hugs ❤ xox ❤

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