Johann Georg Schwartze out of his dauthers shadow

Who Was Johann Georg Schwartze’s Daughter?

Meet Thérèse Schwartze, the renowned Lutheran portraitist and daughter of Johann Georg Schwartze. Trained by her father, the two often collaborated on portraits, shaping her celebrated career. Learn more about Johann Georg Schwartze and his legacy at the Luther Museum’s retrospective, on view until 19 January 2025.

Why Does Johann Georg Schwartze Deserve the Spotlight?

Though a master portraitist of the mid-19th century, Johann Georg Schwartze was quickly overshadowed by his famous daughter Thérèse, whose works are now featured in major Dutch museums. Beyond his own achievements, Johann Georg was instrumental in teaching Thérèse the craft of portraiture. So much so that in 1915, Thérèse and her sister organized a retrospective at Arti et Amicitiae to honor their father. Continuing this tradition, the Luther Museum is proud to bring Johann Georg Schwartze back into the spotlight and secure his rightful place in Dutch art history.

Who Is the Girl in Johann Georg Schwartze’s Poster?

Contrary to what some might assume, the girl featured on the exhibition poster isn’t Johann Georg Schwartze’s daughter. The exhibition shines a spotlight on Johann Georg Schwartze himself, highlighting his exceptional career and the pivotal role he played in preparing his daughter, Thérèse, for her successful career as a portrait painter.

The portrait on the poster depicts Agnes Henriette Pauw van Wieldrecht, a striking example of Johann Georg Schwartze’s mastery. This doll-like portrait is considered one of his finest works and comes from a private collection.

Special Art Commission: Koos Breukel – Lutherans into Focus

What does it mean to be “typically Lutheran,” and what role have Lutherans played in our society, past and present? This autumn, we delve into these questions with a double exhibition through the eyes of two remarkable artists.

In the church hall, the exhibition Johann Georg Schwartze – From the Shadow of His Daughter showcases 19th-century portraits of the elite, including notable Lutherans. Meanwhile, in the museum’s grand hall, visitors can explore Lutherans in Pictures, a contemporary portrait gallery by renowned photographer Koos Breukel, affectionately known as the “photographer of all Dutchmen.”