Georg David Matthieu: portrait of Ulrike Sophie of Mecklenburg-Schwerin

• 1765
• Oil on canvas
• 145 x 105 cm

Ulrike Sophie was the older sister of Duke Friedrich and, from 1728-1756, was the abbess of the Protestant convent in Rühn, not far from Bützow. The representative portrait shows princess Ulrike Sophie, wrapped in a magnificent dress, in a busy situation. In her left hand she is holding a letter, and in the right hand a quill to write something herself. The three-quarter length portrait shows her smiling at her observers.

The princess was very well-educated, spoke several languages and translated stage plays herself. The portrait offers an eloquent impression of the princess‘ surroundings, and her physiognomy is reflected in the room through her clothing and accessories.