The Wind in his Sails

Preserved in the Rijksmuseum depot are two exceptionally dynamic portrait paintings by Bartholomeus van der Helst, created as pendants in 1668, depicting Lieutenant Admiral Aert van Nes (1626-1693) and his wife Geertruida den Dubbelde (c. 1647-1684). While much attention has been devoted to the portrait of Aert van Nes, largely due to its distinctive iconography, the portrait of Geertruida den Dubbelde also deserves a thorough analysis. Her gesturing hand and the harbour scene in the background invite closer scrutiny. This article argues, drawing on comparative research of other admiral and captains’ wives, that Geertruida den Dubbelde played an active role in provisioning her husband’s ship. When considered in this context, the maritime scene in the background clearly symbolises Den Dubbelde’s role as victualler.