When this portrait was discovered in one of the towers at Huis Bergh, curiosity arose as to who this girl was and when the painting was made. That the portrait was found at Huis Bergh was of course a major indication. She might well be a Van den Bergh. Her clothing too helped in identifying her. She is wearing a gown of white satin with leaf patterns in red, black and gold. The stiff-bodied gown has wide hanging sleeves. The enormous ruff collar is trimmed with lace and pairs with lace cuffs at the sleeves. The popular archduchess Isabelle of Spain is wearing a similar gown on a portrait by Rubens. This was the fashion in 1620s Brussels. Maria Elisabeth Clara will be about ten years old in this painting and was living at the Brussels Court at the time.
For more information on Maria Elisabeth Clara’s last and tragic pregnancy, press A For more information on the clothes she is wearing in this painting, press B