# Helena van der Schalcke

- By: Gerard ter Borch (II) (Zwolle, 1617–1681)
- Date: c. 1648
- Medium: panel, oil paint (paint)
- Classification: painting
- Dimensions: depth 1.2 cm
- Credit line: Purchased with the support of the Vereniging Rembrandt
- Museum: [Rijksmuseum](https://www.rijksmuseum.nl/en/collection/object/SK-A-1786--afe781ab16974c11bcb26b5bdbdbb5cd)
- Rights: [Public Domain Mark](http://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/)
- Picture: https://iiif.micr.io/HUjVm/full/!1920,1080/0/default.jpg
- Who can see it: Teens profiles and older (museums give no ratings; placed by Invisible Network from the museum's own words)

Helena van der Schalck, a merchant's daughter was no more than three years old when she was portrayed here. Her silk dress adorned with bows and her straw purse resemble adult attire. However, just visible on her back is a bit of her walking reins, used to keep children safe. The red carnation in her hand symbolizes hope for eternal life. Sadly, Helena died at the age of 24.