A Girl with a Mirror, an Allegory of Profane Love

Paulus Moreelse
1627
Oil on canvas, 105.5 x 83 cm.
Fitzwilliam Museum, University of Cambridge
A Girl with a Mirror, an Allegory of Profane Love, Paulus Moreelse

Paulus MOREELSE
Born 1571, Utrecht–Died 1638, Utrecht

Dutch painter and architect, active in Utrecht, where he helped found the St Lucas guild in 1611. He is best known for his portraits, which are similar to those made by his teacher Miereveld, but less severe. His portraits of shepherds and blonde shepherdesses with a deep décolletage were popular during his lifetime. He designed the Catherine Gate (destroyed) and possibly the façade of the Meat Market in Utrecht.