Van Sipma Jewelers

Portrait of Maria Kitscher von Oelkofen, Frau Pankraz von Freyberg zu Aschau

Hans Mielich was commissioned by Albrecht V of Bavaria to illustrate his inventory of the royal jewels. This experience enabled him to depict the jewelry in his portraits with meticulous clarity. The ring on the forefinger of her right hand is a family signet ring, while the first ring on the forefinger of her left hand is obviously a gimmel ring set with a diamond and a ruby. Who knows what secret message may be hidden in the split shank of her gimmel?

Any lady of wealth would be sure to wear her most valued jewels for an official portrait, although she would probably not wear them every day as we do.