Masterful Mystery

Almost nothing is known about the identity of the contemporary of Rembrandt, who signed his or her impressive portraits with just two initials. After extensive research into the artist, Museum De Lakenhal brings together the most important works by I.S. – including many previously unseen tronies.

In the museum’s three-year investigation, rare clues on the canvases were carefully examined, and new discoveries about the artist I.S. continue to come to light. I.S.’s works depict vulnerable details that do not conform to an idealised image or a perfect representation. The artist portrayed people with a blemish on their face, a swelling, or a missing eye. These portraits, with their extremely realistic details, melancholic gazes, and striking emotional presence, are shown alongside the works of contemporaries in the exhibition.

Image: Master I.S., Portrait of a Woman, ca. 1650 | Montreal Museum of Fine Arts, Montreal