Ter Borch's woman near a cradle

A seated woman is absorbed by the needlework on a cushion in her lap. The cradle next to her is covered with a cloth, probably to protect the sleeping infant. Another woman standing behind her near the hearth stirs a pot.

Gerard ter Borch (1617-1681) Woman sewing near a cradle, c.1656 Inv.no. 1133

With both women quietly concentrating on their tasks, the hushed atmosphere in the room is almost palpable. They might be whispering about household matters or gossiping. The composition’s tranquil simplicity is characteristic of Gerard ter Borch (1617-1681), who often painted such scenes with few figures and little movement.

Ter Borch painted the Woman sewing near a cradle around 1656. It was bequeathed to the Mauritshuis by Mr J. Nienhuys in 2004. Following a thorough restoration, it is now on view to the public in Room 14. Its treatment consisted of removing the old varnish and areas of overpainting, and retouching it where necessary. As a result, Ter Borch’s artistic mastery is once again visible in all its glory, particularly in the beautiful rendering of the seated woman’s clothing. Perhaps even more exquisite is the light playing across her head covering.