In a groundbreaking moment for art history, the National Gallery in London will host the first UK exhibition solely dedicated to Flemish Renaissance painter Catharina van Hemessen (1527/28–after 1565).
In a different theme to previous exhibitions at the National Gallery, this one will be running from March 4 to May 30, 2027, this exhibition will bring together most of her signed works from international collections, offering an unprecedented opportunity to explore the legacy of one of Europe’s earliest documented female painters.
She was a pioneer
Catharina van Hemessen is celebrated as the earliest European female artist whose works can be definitively attributed, thanks to her practice of signing her paintings. Known for her small-scale, intimate portraits of women, created in the late 1540s and early 1550s, her works are characterised by their psychological depth and technical finesse. These portraits, often depicting sitters in formal attire, reflect the influence of the Habsburg court and showcase van Hemessen’s ability to capture the subtleties of human emotion.
One of the highlights of the exhibition is her 1551 Portrait of a Woman, part of the National Gallery’s collection. This piece exemplifies her mastery of detail and her innovative approach to portraiture, which set her apart in a male-dominated field.
A family of artists
Born in Antwerp, Catharina was the daughter of Jan Sanders van Hemessen, a prominent Mannerist painter. Her father’s workshop served as her training ground, where she honed her skills and collaborated on projects. The exhibition will also explore this familial artistic ecosystem, shedding light on the creative dynamics between father and daughter.
In conjunction with the London exhibition, the Museum Snijders&Rockoxhuis in Antwerp will present Van Hemessen & Father: The Antwerp Workshop of Jan and Catharina van Hemessen from October 15, 2026, to January 31, 2027. This complementary exhibition will delve deeper into the Van Hemessen family’s contributions to the Antwerp Renaissance, positioning Catharina as a pivotal figure in this artistic lineage.
A woman ahead of her time
Catharina’s achievements were remarkable in an era when women faced significant barriers in the arts. She was one of only four female painters mentioned by the influential art historians Vasari and Guicciardini, and her works were celebrated across Europe. Her career even took her to Spain, where she joined the court of Mary of Hungary, further cementing her reputation as a trailblazer.
Dr. Christine Seidel, curator of the National Gallery exhibition, highlights Catharina’s significance: “Her beginnings in Antwerp, the most prolific center of artistic production in northern Europe in the 16th century, secured her rank among the best-known women painters of the early modern period.”
A celebration of artistic innovation
The exhibition is part of the H J Hyams Exhibition Programme and is supported by The Capricorn Foundation. Admission is free, making this a must-visit for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Visitors will not only witness the artistry of Catharina van Hemessen but also gain insight into the broader cultural and historical context of her work.
As the art world continues to rediscover and celebrate the contributions of women artists, this exhibition stands as a testament to Catharina van Hemessen’s enduring legacy. Her story is one of talent, determination, and innovation, offering inspiration to generations of artists and audiences.
For more information, visit National Gallery.