Helena van der Schalcke
Gerard ter Borch the Younger
c. 1648
Helena van der Schalck, a merchant's daughter was no more than three years old when she was portrayed here. Her silk dress adorned with bows and her straw purse resemble adult attire. However, just visible on her back is a bit of her walking reins, used to keep children safe. The red carnation in her hand symbolizes hope for eternal life. Sadly, Helena died at the age of 24.
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam · Image: Rijksmuseum, Public domain · Text: Rijksmuseum, CC0