A refined eighteenth-century portrait of Magdalena Constantia Verhaast, presented in profile with an accompanying calligraphic tribute.

This portrait of Magdalena Constantia Verhaast, executed by the Dutch artist Jan Gerard Waldorp, captures the subject in profile within a decorative oval frame. The composition is typical of late eighteenth-century portraiture, where the sitter is presented with a sense of formal restraint. The inclusion of a ribbon at the top of the frame adds a sculptural quality to the print, suggesting a trompe l'oeil effect common in the period.

The lower portion of the sheet contains a lengthy inscription in Dutch, written by Gerrit Paape and dated 1 October 1789. This text provides a narrative context for the portrait, reflecting on themes of friendship and loyalty during times of civil unrest. The calligraphy is integrated into the overall design, balancing the visual weight of the portrait above. The use of stippling and fine line work in the engraving process allows for subtle transitions in tone, particularly in the rendering of the subject's cap and the folds of her clothing.

Waldorp was a versatile artist, active in the Netherlands during a period of significant political change. His work often reflects the aesthetic values of the Dutch Enlightenment, prioritising clarity and a measured approach to representation. The print serves as a record of a specific individual, yet it also functions as a vehicle for the accompanying poetic tribute. The attention to detail in the lace of the cap and the texture of the ribbon demonstrates the technical proficiency of the engraver. This piece is a fine example of how portraiture was used to commemorate personal relationships and moral virtues in the late eighteenth century, combining visual art with literary expression to create a unified commemorative object.