After Gerard ter Borch, 'The Letter' (also known as 'A Lady Writing a Letter')

Story

In 1655, Gerard ter Borch painted this scene to celebrate the quiet, psychological depth of everyday Dutch life. During the 19th-century revival of interest in Dutch masters, highly skilled artists painted faithful copies for wealthy collectors who couldn't own the original.

Maker / Origin

While the original was painted by the Dutch master Gerard ter Borch (1617–1681), famous for his unmatched ability to paint the texture of satin, this piece was created by an anonymous, highly trained copyist. In the 1800s, copying masterpieces in museums like the Louvre or the Mauritshuis was a respected way for artists to hone their craft and earn a living.

Condition & Value

The painting appears to be in good overall condition with rich color preservation. Some minor surface dirt or yellowing of the varnish may be present, which is typical for its age. A professional cleaning could dramatically brighten the whites of the satin skirt, potentially increasing its value.